The German sea and inland ports make a major contribution to the prosperity of Germany and the development of its whole economy. All of Germany benefits from the ports with a large number of complementary industrial and service sectors located in all regions and branches of the economy.

To enhance the competitiveness of German ports, the Federal Cabinet adopted the new National Strategy for Sea and Inland Ports. The 2015 National Ports Strategy builds on its predecessor of 2009 and will assist all players in tackling the challenges of the future and provides a framework for joint action.

In close cooperation with the federal states, social partners and trade associations, the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, in line with the coalition agreement, has developed this strategic guidance, which covers a period of ten years.