European Shippers’ Council calls for competitive energy framework to protect EU supply chains
European Shippers’ Council acknowledges the European Commission’s latest orientation on the EU energy situation ahead of the upcoming European leaders’ meeting, including measures to improve coordination on gas storage, oil stock releases, and market stability, as well as longer-term reforms on electrification, energy efficiency, and carbon pricing.
ESC recognises the need for a coordinated European response to continued volatility in global energy markets. The Commission’s focus on avoiding internal competition between Member States and safeguarding the Single Market is welcomed, particularly as rising energy import costs continue to increase pressure on European transport and logistics operations.
However, ESC expresses concern over persistently high fossil fuel-related costs, which are feeding through into higher freight rates, increased costs for shippers, port operations, and warehousing, and are impacting the overall competitiveness of European trade and industry.
ESC strongly supports improved EU-level coordination on energy policy, including gas storage management and strategic oil stock releases, as a means of limiting price spikes, improving predictability and reducing fragmentation across Member States. It is also stressed that national emergency measures must not undermine the Single Market or create distortions between logistics hubs, ports, and transport corridors.
European Shippers’ Council takes note of the Commission’s intention to introduce more flexible state aid rules for exposed sectors. While temporary support may be necessary, ESC emphasises that such measures must be applied in a transparent, proportionate, and non-discriminatory manner across the EU logistics sector.
Support is also expressed for the EU’s long-term objectives on electrification, renewable energy deployment, and energy efficiency, provided these are matched with sufficient infrastructure investment, clear regulatory frameworks, and realistic implementation timelines.
It is highlighted that logistics operators, ports, and cargo owners will require investment support to adapt to electrification requirements, including shore-side power, grid upgrades, and low-carbon cargo handling systems.
The ongoing revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) is also noted. While decarbonisation remains a shared objective, ESC stresses that carbon pricing reforms must take account of global competitiveness and avoid placing excessive cost burdens on maritime and logistics-intensive sectors.
ESC remains ready to work with the European Commission, Member States, and stakeholders to ensure the energy transition strengthens supply chain resilience, protects competitiveness, and supports sustainable growth.
A stable, predictable, and competitively priced energy environment is reiterated as essential for the effective functioning of Europe’s trade and logistics network.
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