EBI participated at the inaugural Klaipeda Boat Show organised by its Lithuanian member association Litboat. Joining for EBI were Vice-President Anne-Marie Bouweraerts and Secretary-General Philip Easthill to officially open the show and participate in the side conference and several meetings with industry stakeholders and policy-makers.

The Conference was opened by European Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Virginijus Sinkevičius. He highlighted that the Blue Economy is crucial for the success and independence of Lithuania. He highlighted Lithuania and the Baltic Sea as an excellent choice for leisure activities, with 1,000 marinas in the wider region. In his view marinas should become major attractions, especially with the electrification of boats and sustainable development. The potential benefits for Lithuania and the region are significant. He emphasised that the Baltic Sea and its environment is a priority for both the EU and Lithuania. However, he noted that pollution poses a significant threat and called for collective efforts. He stressed that investing in marinas is essential and mentions that the European Commission supports this initiative.

Further speeches were given by key policy-makers, including the Vice-Minister of Transport, Minister for Environment, Director-General of the Inland State Enterprise Lithuanian Inland Waterways Authority, as well as several stakeholders. All emphasised the significant potential of Lithuania to develop the recreational boating industry, modernise regulation and secure public and private investment. The country has around 26,000 boats registered with 500-600 boats newly registered each year. EBI’s Secretary-General Philip Easthill spoke at the conference to present EBI’s role at European level and focus on creating a positive framework for the recreational boating industry, as well as the Manifesto of the five key demands for the next years at EU level.

The Klaipeda Boat Show overall showcased the potential and benefits of recreational boating for the Lithuania‘s economy and growing interest in building a strong boating industry. EBI would like to extend its warmest congratulations to Litboat and its President Karolis Valenta for the exceptional organisation of the show. More information on the Klaipeda Boat Show can be found here.