The nautical sector has expressed growing concern regarding the newly proposed reorganisation plan for the Port of Palma. Industry representatives stress the importance of recognising the sector’s strong international competitiveness and its significant social and economic contribution, accounting for approximately 3.5% of regional GDP and providing employment for thousands of families.
In response, the Board of Directors of the Balearic Marine Cluster will meet on 23 January with the President and Director of the Balearic Ports Authority (APB) to obtain detailed information about the planned relocation of the industrial nautical sector to the West Breakwater.
This meeting follows the distribution of a presentation via email on 19 December outlining the new Port of Palma proposal, as well as the publication on 21 December of the tender for drafting the Master Plan and Urban Development Proposal for the transformation of the commercial quays. These developments have generated uncertainty among more than 800 companies operating within the port, supporting over 6,000 families.
The Balearic Marine Cluster believes it is vital to receive clear and comprehensive information on how the reorganisation will be implemented, the criteria used during the planning phase, and the measures that will ensure the operational sustainability of Palma’s industrial nautical sector in both the medium and long term.
The organisation emphasises its role as a bridge between the nautical industry and public authorities, representing the concerns of businesses while encouraging constructive dialogue. The objective is to balance the port’s transformation with the continued growth of economic activity in an increasingly competitive national and international market.
According to Pedro Suasi, Managing Director of the Balearic Marine Cluster, “The purpose of this meeting is to understand the technical foundations behind the proposed relocation of the repair area, how it will be carried out, and what assurances are being provided to allow the sector to continue operating competitively.”
The Cluster also warns policymakers in the Balearic Islands that any errors in the reorganisation process could result in a long-term loss of competitiveness in a highly contested market, potentially leading to job losses and the closure of numerous industrial businesses. It reiterates that the nautical sector has been recognised by the regional government as a strategic industry due to its economic and social importance.
Guillermo García, President of the Balearic Marine Cluster, adds: “The foundations that support the competitiveness of the Port of Palma’s nautical repair sector risk being weakened by political decisions. What the industry is asking for are transparent data, technical reports, and firm guarantees to ensure that future changes do not compromise its sustainability.”
In the coming weeks, the Balearic Marine Cluster plans to hold an open assembly for all interested nautical repair companies to share the meeting’s outcomes and provide the latest available information on this issue.
