In fact, the Greek-owned fleet is the largest crosstrader in the world, moving cargoes between third countries with over 98% of its capacity. The international, cross-trading character of Greek shipping, together with its size, render it indispensable for global trade. Greek shipping is predominantly engaged in the bulk/tramp sector.
This specialises in transporting staples such as grains and agricultural products, oil and gas, iron, bauxite, alumina and other ores, coal, fertilisers, steel, chemical and forest products. It, therefore, transports essential goods which are necessary for the survival and well-being of the populations around the world. With the bulk/tramp sector being inherently itinerant and flexible in nature, the Greek-controlled fleet is highly responsive to changing or new trading areas and patterns.
Τhe bulk/tramp sector comprises thousands of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). It also still operates in an almost perfectly competitive market, with shipowners being price-takers with regard to the price of each individual transportation contract. This is because of the large number of shipping companies participating in the bulk cargo trades.
According to recent data4 there are about 4,700 companies in the tanker sector owning 3.6 vessels on average and almost 2,500 bulk carrier owners holding 5 vessels on average. This business model, together with technological innovations and the implementation of energy efficiency measures, has helped contain tr.
