- EU e-fuel producers face growing competition from China, the Middle East and the US
- Shipping decarbonisation needs up to €47 billion a year by 2035
- Industry urges stronger EU action to protect early advantages.
EU producers of e-ammonia and e-methanol are increasingly exposed as other regions accelerate investments in production and infrastructure. While Europe moved early, faster progress elsewhere risks eroding this lead as global e-fuel markets begin to mature.
Investment Gap Remains Large
According to the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, decarbonising shipping will require €35–47 billion annually by 2035. Most funding is expected from private players, but public support remains critical to reduce risks for early projects and guide the market toward strategic fuels.
Industry Calls for Targeted Support
While the plan is seen as a positive step, existing tools such as hydrogen auctions and innovation funds are viewed as insufficient. Industry groups are calling for clearer support focused only on e-fuels, alongside supply mandates at EU ports and better use of shipping ETS revenues.
Clear Signals Needed for Investors
Stronger incentives under maritime fuel regulations, stable rules, and “Made in Europe” provisions are seen as key to driving investment. Without firm policy direction, projects risk delays, fragmented markets, and lost competitiveness for Europe’s clean maritime fuel sector.
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Source – Safety4Sea
