Norway is seeking to deepen cooperation with the Philippines in shipping and maritime services as the industry undergoes a significant green and digital transformation, according to a top diplomat.
Speaking at the launch of the Doing Business in the Philippines publication on Thursday, Norway Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Lyster said maritime cooperation remains a primary pillar of bilateral ties. He said opportunities are expanding as the sector shifts toward decarbonization and digitalization.
“Maritime remains a cornerstone of our relationship,” Lyster said, noting that around 25,000 Filipino seafarers serve on Norwegian-controlled vessels, underscoring the Philippines’ role as a global maritime labor hub.
As shipping transitions toward cleaner technologies, Lyster said Norwegian companies see strong potential to partner with Philippine stakeholders to modernize domestic shipping. He specifically identified battery-electric and hybrid propulsion systems for ferries as a key area of interest.
Norway hosted the first Electric Ferries Conference in the Philippines last year, bringing together policymakers, shipbuilders and technology providers to explore low-emission solutions.
Lyster said a Norwegian-Filipino private sector partnership is currently developing the first hybrid propulsion ferry prototype in the country, with plans to support local manufacturing in Philippine shipyards.
“The shift towards electric ships and greener logistics is no longer optional. It is essential for long-term competitiveness and climate resilience,” he said.
Lyster cited cybersecurity as a growing area of cooperation as ports, ships and logistics systems become increasingly digital. Norway will host a major maritime cybersecurity conference in Manila in April 2026 focused on protecting digital infrastructure both at sea and onshore.
The ambassador said these initiatives align with broader efforts under the European Free Trade Association–Philippines Free Trade Agreement to unlock untapped investment potential.
Total trade between the Philippines and EFTA countries exceeds 700 million euros annually, but Lyster noted that the agreement has yet to reach its full potential in terms of awareness and utilization.
