The maritime industry plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade and contributing to global economic development. As technological advancements and environmental challenges evolve, the industry must adapt accordingly. A report from Menon Economics highlights a significant disparity between the global and Norwegian fleets in terms of sustainability. While only 5 percent of the world's fleet consists of low- or zero-emission vessels, the Norwegian-owned fleet boasts a much higher share at 24 percent.

For over 50 years, Agder has been a world-leading hub for offshore technology, primarily serving the oil and gas sector. This deep-rooted expertise is now proving invaluable in the transition to low- and zero-emission ships, positioning Agder at the forefront of the maritime industry's shift towards sustainability. The region's strengths include:

Diverse Expertise and Technology

• Wide range of expertise in maritime, oil and gas, and energy sectors
• Leading technology in logistics, ICT solutions, drilling, mooring, on- and off-loading, and cranes

Global Reach and Partnerships

• Extensive experience working with international customers, including major companies like Aker BP, Repsol, Lundin Norway, OMV (Norge) AS, Alcoa, Halliburton, and Equinor

Agder is home to a diverse range of maritime companies, each playing a crucial role in shaping the industry's sustainable future:

• Sea1 Offshore: Operates and manages a fleet of 26 vessels designed for challenging environments, with four global offices and a headquarters in Kristiansand, Agder.
• OSM Thome: Founded in Arendal, Agder in 1989, it provides ship and crew management services globally, managing around 1000 vessels with 30+ offices worldwide.
• Gard: The world's leading marine insurer, covering about 50% of the global merchant fleet, with headquarters in Arendal and offices in 13 locations.
• GCE NODE: An industry-driven cluster for ocean technologies based in Agder, comprising over 120 companies in the oil & gas, offshore, energy, and maritime industries, supported by a network of engineering, ICT solutions, logistics, and business services providers.

Members of GCE Node include international drilling majors such as NOV, HMH, and SLB, in addition to leaders within offshore cranes, loading, and mooring, such as APL-NOV, MacGregor, and Nekkar. Large mechanical manufacturing companies and yards like NYMO, GOT, and UMOE, as well as renewable energy producers such as Å Energi, Arendals Fossekompani, Greenstat, and Equinor, are also part of the cluster.

These companies are supported by engineering, ICT solutions, logistics, and business services necessary to succeed in a global context.