The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic union of 27 member states, acting as a single entity in trade matters. As a global trading powerhouse, the EU plays a key role in shaping the rules, regulations, and practices that govern maritime trade – not only within Europe but also across international waters.
It operates a customs union, a single market, and has more than 40 trade agreements with other countries or blocs, covering about 70 countries worldwide.
The EU is:
• The world’s largest exporter of manufactured goods and services
• A major importer of energy, raw materials, and food
• Home to some of the busiest ports in the world (e.g. Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg)
Maritime transport handles 75% of the EU’s external trade by volume and over 30% of intra-EU trade.
The EU has direct influence over maritime trade through:
1. Customs Policy & Union Customs Code (UCC)
2. Port Services Regulation
3. Environmental and Safety Standards
4. Market Access and Trade Agreements
• DG TRADE – manages trade policy, negotiations, and WTO/EU relations
• DG MOVE – oversees transport, including maritime, infrastructure, and TEN-T corridors
Together, they influence how goods flow into, across, and out of Europe, making the EU a central hub for global trade.
The EU is committed to aligning trade with sustainability through:
• The Green Deal and Fit for 55 package
• Investment in clean ports, digital maritime corridors, and short-sea shipping
• Protecting marine ecosystems as part of the EU Blue Economy Strategy
It promotes trade that is both competitive and environmentally responsible.
The EU acts as a model of regional trade integration, demonstrating how countries can align policies, simplify movement of goods, and protect shared waters – while also defending fair trade and human rights in global supply chains.
Its voice is powerful in shaping maritime norms far beyond European shores.
How does the EU’s customs union and single market benefit maritime trade between its member states?
