Tanker shipping company Stena Bulk has today confirmed its intention to register up to five of its suezmax vessels under the Swedish flag.
A suezmax tanker is one of the largest types of tankers and is approximately 275 meters long with a gross tonnage of 81,000 tonnes. Up to five of these vessels will be the largest ships under the Swedish flag.
In recent years, Sweden has made notable progress to improve its competitiveness as a shipping nation.
Reforms such as the removal of stamp duty on ship registration, improvements to the Swedish Ship Register, and the proposal for a more competitive tonnage tax regime have created a more favourable environment for domestic investment and are now translating into concrete decisions by shipowners.
“The move will fill a current gap in Sweden’s maritime registry, as presently there are no Suezmax tankers currently flagged in the nation. It also reflects the evolving geopolitical landscape and the growing need for control over strategic transportation assets,” Stena Bulk said in its statement.
Work is ongoing to ensure this transition is fully aligned with the practical realities of vessel operation.
Stena Bulk said that it is working closely with Swedish authorities and relevant trade unions to ensure all aspects – from crewing to compliance – are addressed in a way that maintains safe and efficient operations.
The target is to complete the registration and transition process around 1st July 2025, subject to final administrative steps and continued constructive dialogue with all involved parties.
