The UK ports industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. 95% of the UK’s international trade – imports and exports – is carried through UK ports, which also handle around 25 million international passenger journeys each year.
Ports across the UK are investing in upgrading and expanding facilities to cope with increasing demand and maximise new opportunities for regeneration, innovation and economic development, particularly in areas like offshore energy, port-centric manufacturing, container shipping and Ro/Ro.
Strategic investment in port facilities and capability is essential for the UK economy to remain competitive internationally and for the country as a whole to meet its ambitions and commitments on decarbonisation and net zero.
Created in 1992, the British Ports Association (BPA) represents the interests of over 100 port and terminal members that collectively manage more than 400 ports, harbours, and marine facilities across the UK. Its members account for 86% of all port tonnage and handle 85% of all vessel visits at UK ports.Membership comprises many ports, terminal operators, and port facilities, of varying size, location, and nature, and is able to draw upon a wide range of experience and knowledge to represent its members’ interests.
In addition, the BPA’s membership includes over 100 associate members made up of a diverse range of companies who provide goods and services to ports and who are involved in the wider BPA network.
The BPA lobbies various tiers of government around the UK and beyond and is the only organisation to promote the entire ports industry and regularly undertakes activities to increase the profile of the sector.
Represent UK port interests to the UK Government, devolved Governments, and across the EU
Track legislative and policy developments that impact the UK ports industry and communicate this information to members
Create networks for UK ports to share best practice and expertise
Increase the profile of the UK ports sector
As the UK's busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers. It is also an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to over 20 major cruise lines and 200,000 guests per year. With a diverse cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a new marina which is central to the exciting waterfront re-development, plus opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.
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More on: British Ports Association
Contact us: BPAconference@freshwater.co.uk
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