Transport and Covid-19: responses and resources

Maritime Subsidies: Do They Provide Value for Money?

Maritime Subsidies: Do They Provide Value for Money?

The shipping sector receives subsidies, tax breaks and other forms of financial support from governments. This report gives an overview of direct and indirect subsidies available to maritime transport in OECD countries and assesses whether they provide value for taxpayers’ money. Based on this, the report offers recommendations on how policy-makers can increase the effectiveness of maritime subsidies.

Policy Insights

  • Re-orient and harmonise maritime subsidy policies.
  • Clarify objectives of maritime subsidies.
  • Make maritime subsidies more conditional on positive impacts.
  • Design maritime subsidies in ways that avoid market distortions.
  • Improve transparency around maritime subsidies.

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