The Free Trade Zone of Cádiz strengthens its commitment to the Blue Economy at the International Congress of Naval Engineering in Malaga

The director of the Financial Area and Blue Economy of the Free Trade Zone of Cádiz, José Manuel Fedriani, has represented the Cádiz Consortium at the 65th International Congress of Naval Engineering and Maritime Industry, held from April 22 to 24 in Malaga, where prominent experts from the maritime and naval sector have gathered. During his participation in the round table "Towards a Prosperous Blue Economy: opportunities and challenges in the Spanish context", Fedriani emphasized the role of the Free Trade Zone in consolidating the province of Cádiz as a strategic hub linked to the sea. In this regard, he highlighted the work being done to generate a favorable ecosystem for developing Blue Economy projects, as well as the creation of alliances that reinforce its growth. The Cádiz representative participated in the meeting on behalf of the consortium delegate, Fran González, and shared the table with relevant figures from the sector such as Javier Noriega, Javier Touza and Carlos Aldereguía. Fedriani highlighted key initiatives such as the Blue Core program, co-financed by FEDER funds, and the incubator Incubazul, aimed at innovative projects linked to the marine environment. Both tools are part of an integrated strategy to promote economic development, innovation, and the generation of qualified employment in the province. "The push for the Blue Economy is not a passing trend, but one of the major growth vectors for Europe in the coming decades," said Fedriani, who assured that Cádiz has ideal conditions to lead this field thanks to a model that allows for the creation, acceleration, and consolidation of companies. The congress, which has brought together professionals from the academic, business, and naval sectors for three days, has addressed challenges and opportunities in areas such as defense, offshore wind, fishing, maritime transport, or recreational boating. Additionally, the event has included an innovation zone aimed at startups, facilitating their visibility and connection with potential investors.