Independent journal on economy and transport policy
18:28 GMT+1
HDW and Fincantieri agree on closer cooperation
In a first spet they will investigate the possibilities for synergetic cooperation in research and development, design, purchasing, marketing, sales and production
December 14, 2000
Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft AG (HDW) and Fincantieri Cantieri Navali Italiani Spa in a memorandum of understanding have agreed to examine the prospect of closer cooperation. Both shipyards are aware that this cooperation means a considerable chance of building up and enforce the joint strength of both groups.
The shipyards believe that in the merchant shipbuilding sector price pressures and distorsive practices from Far East competitors require the European shipbuilders to achieve adequate levels of cost reduction and product differentiation. At the same time, in the naval shipbuilding sector defence budget restraints for many countries and growing competition need to be faced with improvements in costs and technology.
"The cooperation agreement between the two companies is particularly important for the moment and the field in which it is made" said Pier Francesco Guarguaglini, CEO of Fincantieri. "Through this agreement also the shipbuilding industry starts to follow the path of a European cooperation in both the civil and the military fields. This is an essential strategic evolution to face the several challenges committing us daily. This is therefore a highly meaningful action, and we believe that it will be also appreciated by the respective ministries of Defence".
"For Fincantieri this agreement follows the recent definition and start of the 'Horizon' project in cooperation with the French industry, and confirms our strong propensity towards an international cooperation and presence," he added.
In a first spet HDW and Fincantieri have decided to establish working groups. They will analyse the areas of cruise ships, ferries and other ship types, naval ships and submarines to investigate the possibilities for synergetic cooperation in research and development, design, purchasing, marketing and sales and production.
They also will investigate the current trends in the field of integrated combat ships, in order to identify the opportunities to improve the overall and long-term competitiveness of Fincantieri and HDW.
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Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft AG (HDW) and Fincantieri Cantieri Navali Italiani Spa in a memorandum of understanding have agreed to examine the prospect of closer cooperation. Both shipyards are aware that this cooperation means a considerable chance of building up and enforce the joint strength of both groups. 
- Via Raffaele Paolucci 17r/19r - 16129 Genoa - ITALY
