The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has partnered with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) Mangalore to establish bunkering services for ships. This five-year agreement aims to enhance fuel supply efficiency for vessels, improving maritime operations at New Mangalore Port significantly.
Iraq is seeking to hire two oil supertankers through the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting a regional drive among oil producers to gain control over exports. The Iraqi Oil Tankers Co. has issued a tender for very large crude carriers, emphasizing the strategic importance of tanker ownership amid geopolitical tensions and rising demand.
On September 10, vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz fell to seven, down from twelve the day prior and below the ten-day average of fourteen. Among the outbound vessels was the Finland Prosperity carrying nearly 2 million barrels of crude oil, while no liquefied natural gas tankers departed.
Reports indicate a vessel hijacking occurred today, September 10, south of Yemen. The bulker, identified as the Glamor, was likely boarded by pirates approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of Balhaf. This incident marks a troubling rise in piracy in the region, attributed to ongoing instability and potential Houthi support.
On Thursday, an unidentified skiff approached a cargo vessel off Yemen’s coast, prompting a response from UK Maritime Trade Operations. This incident, occurring 98 nautical miles southwest of Al Mukalla, raises alarms about maritime safety in the region, which has faced multiple security threats in recent years. Authorities are investigating.
On Wednesday, a tragic incident occurred involving the Gibraltar-flagged oil tanker Hercules Star off Dubai’s coast, resulting in one seafarer’s death and another crew member missing. While Peninsula confirmed the loss, the cause remains unclear, prompting a search by a specialist team. Reports hint at a possible drone strike as the culprit.
On August 14, a tragic incident in Chattogram’s ship recycling sector claimed ten workers’ lives, raising urgent safety concerns. Despite established protocols, the release of hazardous gas in open areas shows a critical need to reassess risk assessments and improve rescue training. The industry must urgently implement comprehensive safety measures.
Alfa Laval’s report, “Ask the HEXperts,” emphasizes the critical need for proactive heat exchanger maintenance in the marine industry. With potential losses exceeding €12,000 from a single fouled unit, regular servicing not only enhances efficiency but also reduces carbon emissions and operating costs, providing a vital competitive advantage in a challenging market.
On September 9, 2026, India launched the Ocean Research Vessel (ORV Sagar Manthan) at Rishi Bankim Shipyard in Kolkata, marking a pivotal moment in maritime technology. Inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, this state-of-the-art vessel represents India’s commitment to self-reliance in oceanographic research, set to replace the aging ORV Sagar Kanya.
India reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with Germany and Europe at the India Reception in Hamburg during SMM Hamburg 2026. The event, organized by the Consulate General, facilitated discussions among officials and industry leaders, focusing on innovation, sustainable practices, and a new Memorandum of Understanding to enhance bilateral collaboration.
A coalition of representatives from 18 key shipping nations has expressed concerns over the threats to maritime trade posed by escalating geopolitical tensions and the rise of a “shadow fleet.” The Consultative Shipping Group calls for enhanced international cooperation to protect navigation freedoms and ensure fair competition in the industry.
Iran announced on Wednesday that it had attacked 10 ships near the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for the U.S. sinking five Iranian oil tankers. This escalation has pushed Brent crude prices above $100 a barrel, with casualties reported among seafarers. The U.S. military responded by targeting Iranian vessels.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is investigating shipowners and recruitment agencies for placing Filipino seafarers in dangerous areas, particularly the Strait of Hormuz and Black Sea. Following the attack on the MT Sidr, which resulted in fatalities, DMW emphasizes enforcing regulations to protect seafarers’ rights and safety.
A Panama-flagged tanker, New Andros, carrying 2 million barrels of Iraqi fuel oil, was struck by a drone in Iraqi territorial waters, igniting a fire but leaving its 22 crew members unharmed. The Iraqi Oil Ministry reported minor hull damage with no cargo leakage, amid escalating maritime tensions in the region.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has established the Maritime Labor Affairs Office (MLAO) to enhance support for Filipino seafarers. This initiative, detailed in Administrative Order No. 283, includes legal assistance, dispute resolution, and educational resources, ensuring comprehensive support for maritime workers throughout their careers at sea.
