France-based CMA CGM, the world’s third largest container shipping company, is set to hire Indian seafarers directly through an entity in India. This move, to be announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Marseille, aims to build a specialized pool of seafarers for the company’s ships with specific requirements.
Nearly 120 individuals aboard Holland America’s ms Rotterdam have reported norovirus symptoms during a 12-night Panama Canal cruise. With 107 passengers and 12 crew members affected, enhanced cleaning protocols have been implemented. This outbreak is one of seven tracked by the CDC in 2025, highlighting ongoing public health concerns in cruising.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) organized a table-top exercise with Indonesia and Malaysia to improve regional coordination for oil spills. Over 20 representatives from MPA, Indonesia, Malaysia, and ITOPF participated to enhance response capabilities in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and communication during oil spill incidents.
Cochin Shipyard Ltd. is set to build a new shipyard at Cochin Port with international assistance to boost the industry. The investment aligns with efforts to enhance ship repair capabilities in India and position Kochi as a maritime hub. This move is crucial for the growth and expansion of the shipbuilding sector in the country.
The increasing reliance on subsea infrastructure poses significant risks that require safeguarding to protect undersea assets. This infrastructure, including communication cables, pipelines, and electricity cables, plays a crucial role in maintaining global connectivity and supporting various sectors such as finance, military, and energy. With over 600 overall cables, the infrastructure vulnerability is more apparent.
DP World’s Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) achieved a significant milestone in 2024, with a record-high throughput of 1.42 million TEUs. This marked an 11% increase from the previous year, showcasing its crucial role in Gujarat and contribution to India’s global trade network. Operational excellence, safety commitment, and sustainability efforts were key factors in this achievement.
The owner of the capsized fishing vessel off Nova Scotia identified the experienced skipper, John Allen Baker, and deckhand Phil MacInnis as the crewmembers who tragically lost their lives. Despite difficult conditions, three survivors were rescued, but one later passed away. The Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the casualty.
Hambantota International Port (HIP) made headlines in January 2025 with the introduction of High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) to its bunkering services. This move, along with existing marine fuels like VLSFO and MGO/MDO, further solidifies Sri Lanka’s presence in the global maritime sector. HIP’s strategic positioning and commitment to innovation are setting new standards.
Japan’s NYK Line and Yara Clean Ammonia have signed the first charter for an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier, advancing the establishment of the ammonia value chain. This initiative, part of Japan’s Green Innovation Project, aims to develop ammonia as a maritime fuel, addressing emissions and enhancing shipping decarbonization efforts.
The ITF has raised concerns about flag states hindering efforts to resolve seafarer abandonment cases. In 2024, 312 cases involving 3,133 seafarers were reported, with delays caused by flags not ratifying the MLC. Instances of flag withdrawal were highlighted, emphasizing the need for flag states to play a crucial role in resolving abandonment issues efficiently.
The NTSB found that a crane’s collision with the Mackinac Bridge was due to incorrect height estimation. The towing vessel’s crew visually estimated the crane’s angle to be safe for passage, but it was actually too high. Lack of proper navigation assessment and verification of safety procedures contributed to the incident.
NYK has launched a biofuel test run on its coal carrier, the Noshiro Maru, for Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc. This pioneering move in Japan showcases a commitment to sustainable fuel options in the maritime industry. The collaboration with Mitsubishi Corporation Energy Co., Ltd. highlights the potential for biofuels in reducing carbon emissions.
France is deepening its maritime collaboration with Morocco, demonstrating its dedication to supporting Morocco’s maritime industry. The French ambassador highlighted Morocco’s crucial role in representing Africa and southern nations, promoting cooperation. At the Halieutis Fair, French companies showcased innovative solutions for Morocco’s blue economy. The partnership is reinforcing the strong bond between two countries.
The VOC Port Authority is in talks with a Korean conglomerate to develop a shipbuilding facility in Thoothukudi. Ministry of Port, Shipping, and Waterways, along with Invest India, are facilitating discussions. Plans to expand the fleet size and establish a green hydrogen hub are underway. Tamil Nadu has shown interest in hosting the infrastructure.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Directorate General of Sea Transportation (DGST) in Indonesia have extended their collaboration on training government officers in the maritime sector. The renewed MoU highlights the strong ties between the two countries and aims to address emerging challenges in the industry.
