Merchant Shipping has steadily supported Hellenic Economy over the years and only in 1995 shipping operations have made it possible for Hellas to import 2.191billion USA dollars, offering a significant contribution to the National Balance of Payments We should note that during a twelve-months period between January-December 1995 the maritime exchange inflow registered the highest increase of the decade (11%) against that registered during the respective 1994 period.

At this point, it should be stressed that maritime foreign exchange is a "net" exchange created at no cost of the economy (as is the case with tourist foreign exchange inflow, for which public investments, granting of books e.t.c. are required). This is due to the fact that the vast majority of Hellenic ships is engaged in cross-trade activities between third countries and thus affected by World Economy and Shipping Market Conditions.

For this specific reason Greece, within the context of International and European Transport and Shipping Organisation, supports and adopts those positions promoting free markets in a free competitive environment, while at the same time opposes to any form of protectionism measures.