The Two Declines of Swedish Shipping

Abstract

Over the last five decades the structure of the shipping industry has changed dramatically, and in this process numerous players and countries have declined, while others have prospered. Sweden, once home to vibrant shipping and shipbuilding industries, is a prime example of a maritime centre in decline. In 1960 Swedish shipping companies controlled approximately 2.9 per cent of the world fleet, but after 1973 the Swedish position was heavily eroded. By 2010 the figure was well below 1 per cent, and the Swedish industry itself currently anticipates a further decline (Sveriges Redareförening, 2010). A comparison of the structure of the industry in the late 1950s with the 2010 situation clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the decline.