State of the maritime nation 2025

State of the maritime nation 2025

UK Maritime Sector Revealed as £224 Billion Economic Engine Supporting 1.17 Million Jobs

Maritime UK has today launched the State of the Maritime Nation report, highlighting the indispensable role of a sector that drives growth and keeps the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland fed, fuelled, and supplied. As the cornerstone of the nation's supply chain and sovereign security, the maritime industry handles 95% of the UK’s food, fuel, and supplies. This vital network ensures that 25% of the UK's energy supply and 48% of food supplies reach homes and businesses across the country every day.
The new research, produced by WPI Economics, reveals the staggering scale of the sector’s impact on the British economy. The data paints a picture of a deeply integrated industry that powers businesses not just on the coast but far inland:

● Aggregate Turnover: The combined direct, indirect, and induced contribution reached £224 billion in 2023, up from the previous baseline.
● Wider Employment: Total employment supported by the sector rose to 1.17 million, spanning roles from high-tech marine engineering to local travel agents booking cruises on the British high street.
● Economic Value: The annual aggregate Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy is now estimated at £63 billion.
● Wages and Salaries: Total compensation for employees across these 1.17 million jobs amounted to £24 billion.

Brian Johnson, Chair of Maritime UK, said:

"Our latest report provides a comprehensive showcase of just how significant the maritime impact is for every corner of the country, supporting over 1.17 million jobs and £224 billion in turnover, that truly underscores our role as a key cornerstone of the UK economy.

 
Most importantly, this report highlights the maritime sector’s potential to serve as a strategic engine for community prosperity. From Aberdeen to Falmouth, our sector is fostering local economies and attracting the vital investment needed to drive UK growth and global influence."

The maritime sector continues to outpace the wider UK economy, with a compound annual growth rate of 5%, exceeding the 4.5% national average. Beyond its economic weight, the sector is a primary driver of technological innovation, with major cutting edge projects underway covering green technology, maritime autonomy, and decarbonisation, supporting the UK to be a world leader for the green transition.