In a significant development, the Houthi leadership in Yemen has declared an end to their attacks on maritime interests linked to Israel. This decision follows a US-Houthi ceasefire mediated by Oman. The cessation is expected to restore normal shipping traffic through the Red Sea, benefiting the Suez Canal Authority economically.
The Indian government’s new strategy to transform the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) into a strategic state carrier marks a departure from previous privatization efforts. With plans to enhance fleet capacity and partnerships through a Maritime Development Fund, the initiative aims to address declining profits and bolster India’s maritime needs.
A group of 11 sailors, embarking on the McIntyre Mini Globe Race, recently docked in Durban after a remarkable journey from Antigua. Skipper Adam Waugh, 60, highlighted the unique challenge of sailing solo in their self-constructed boats, while also raising awareness for young cancer survivors. Excitement builds for the next leg to Cape Town.
France has officially joined the Jeddah Amendment to the Djibouti Code of Conduct, aimed at combating piracy and illegal maritime activities in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. The signing, held at the IMO Headquarters, marks France as the 19th country to reinforce maritime security and cooperation efforts.
The Houthi militia has reportedly ceased attacks on Israel and Red Sea shipping, impacting global container shipping dynamics. Peter Sand, Chief Analyst at Xeneta, emphasizes that safety assurances are crucial for carriers. While some companies cautiously resume routes, overall container traffic through the Suez Canal has declined, risking further drops in freight rates.
The Australian Border Force and Federal Police intercepted nearly 65 kg of cocaine worth over A$21 million in Brisbane. The shipment, falsely declared as wooden slats from Panama, revealed 108 bricks of cocaine after x-ray anomalies were detected. This significant haul could lead to 324,000 street-level deals, threatening community safety.
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is collaborating with U.S. and British authorities to investigate a $235 million cocaine shipment seized at Lagos’ Tincan Port. The 1,000 kg of cocaine was discovered in an empty container, prompting an international effort to identify and apprehend the operation’s masterminds.
Oil prices rose on Tuesday amid new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil and optimism about a potential end to the government shutdown. Brent crude increased by $1.14 to $65.20 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate climbed $1.03 to $61.16, though concerns about oversupply limited further gains.
The Mahanadi River came alive as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the Mahanadi Boita Race 2025, celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage. This vibrant event honors the ancient Sadhabas, featuring a competitive boat race with 15 teams. Parida highlighted the race as a tribute to Odisha’s rich history and future.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will inaugurate the revamped MMCT 2.0 campus of Mangalore Marine College on November 13. As Karnataka’s only marine college recognized by the Directorate General of Shipping, it offers advanced training facilities, including a Ship-in-Campus module and state-of-the-art simulators, to prepare students for maritime careers.
Authorities in Singapore are investigating a serious collision between the ferry Horizon 9 and a chemical tanker, which caused panic among passengers. The incident occurred near the Southern Islands, prompting a swift response from the Maritime and Port Authority. Fortunately, all passengers were safely disembarked, and no injuries were reported.
Goltens Worldwide has partnered with Finland’s WE Tech Solutions to enhance marine retrofit projects aimed at improving vessel energy efficiency and reducing emissions. As WE Tech’s preferred global retrofit partner, Goltens will implement advanced energy-optimization technologies, streamlining fleet modernization for shipowners and supporting decarbonization efforts in the commercial shipping sector.
Lukoil has declared force majeure at its West Qurna-2 oil field in Iraq, a direct impact of U.S. sanctions on Russian oil firms. This development complicates Lukoil’s international operations amid rising geopolitical tensions. If unresolved in six months, production may cease, further straining the company’s financial situation.
Ahead of the Crew Connect summit in Manila, Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Maritime Services, emphasizes the urgent need to address seafarer exploitation by unscrupulous crewing agents. Document fraud undermines maritime integrity, endangering safety. Collective action is essential: thorough checks by shipowners, strict enforcement by regulators, and transparency in crewing practices are vital.
An annual survey of global seafarers highlights the need for continued investment in personnel for the maritime industry’s future. While wages have stabilized, seniority bonuses are rising, particularly for experienced second engineers. However, mental health issues are increasing, with 44% reporting stress. Positive trends include improved training satisfaction and enhanced welfare measures.
