Danish shipping delivers – even in turbulent times
The past year has been profoundly shaped by geopolitics and conflict. This affects the day-to-day operations of shipping companies and has become a decisive factor in planning routes, fleet composition, and future investments. Change is a constant in a volatile and uncertain world.
Fortunately, Danish shipping has historically demonstrated a strong ability to adapt to the conditions of a changing world.
Defence and preparedness are playing a greater role than before – also here at home. The maritime sector should be systematically integrated into Denmark’s total defence framework. We stand ready to contribute our experience and capabilities and to take on preparedness tasks of significant societal value.
Especially in times of uncertainty, the importance of a strong Danish flag is crucial. A strong Danish flag is at the core of Danish Shipping’s new strategy. This requires continued competitive framework conditions and world-class maritime competencies.
The transition of shipping to alternative fuels and the continuous reduction of our climate and environmental footprint are key priorities for us. We therefore continue to work towards global climate regulation of shipping that can reduce emissions while ensuring a level global playing field.
The Danish merchant fleet is a strong strategic asset for Denmark and Europe in an uncertain and changing world. That is something we can – and should – be proud of.
Caroline Pontoppidan, Executive Vice President
A.P. Møller – Mærsk and Chairwoman of Danish Shipping
Caroline Pontoppidan, Chairwoman of Danish Shipping
Source: Danish Shipping
Danish shipping companies export to the entire world
Percentage distribution of the shipping companies’ exports by region (and China).
June 2025
In bright sunshine at Langelinie, 58 students receive their diplomas from Danish Shipping Education – the largest graduating class in the programme’s history.
July 2025
The Danish government assumes the Presidency of the EU and marks the occasion by inviting the European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, to visit the Port of Aarhus, including a tour of Laura Maersk, the world’s first container vessel with a dual-fuel engine.
August 2025
DFDS wins Danish Shipping’s Diversity Award. The jury highlights the “Waves of Talent” programme, which has already had a measurable impact on the share of female officers, and praises DFDS for its transparency regarding gender pay gaps.
The Danish civilian fleet is the third largest in NATO
The largest civilian fleets in NATO (deadweight million tonnes). Source: S&P Maritime Portal
Denmark is Among the Ten Biggest Shipping Nations
Measured by operated tonnage (BT million) , Denmark is the ninth biggest shipping nation in the world. Source: S&P Maritime Portal
A portrait of a company in Blue Denmark
“It’s only when things stop working that people realise we’re there.”
JD-Contractor, based in Holstebro, builds, monitors, maintains and repairs critical infrastructure in Danish waters - most of which goes unnoticed in everyday life. Both energy supply and communications depend on subsea cables. Infrastructure that is increasingly seen as a potential target in hybrid warfare.
“It’s something we feel a strong sense of responsibility for—and pride in. It’s the combination of people, equipment and experience that enables us to carry out these tasks. I believe it’s important that we maintain these capabilities in Denmark. When things really go wrong, it is national preparedness that matters,” says Rasmus Normann Andersen, CEO of JD-Contractor A/S.
Since the company was founded in 1972 under the name Jydsk Dykkerfirma, both its name and scope of activities have evolved. Today, JD-Contractor operates at the intersection of a specialised shipping company and a marine contractor.
Development in Danish-flagged tonnage (BT 1.000).
Source: S&P Maritime Portal
Denmark's Biggest Export Industry
Shipping is Denmark's biggest export industry. In 2025 the export amounted to 348 billion Dkk - 16 percent of total Danish export. Source: Statistics Denmark