Kongsberg recently announced plans to merge its maritime-focused business unit, Kongsberg Digital, into Kongsberg Maritime to better serve customers and adapt to industry advancements. The integration, scheduled for 2025, involves transferring $53 million in revenue and 500 employees. This move will allow Kongsberg Digital to focus on digital twin and energy solutions.
Iridium Communications Inc. has introduced Iridium Certus® GMDSS, a new maritime satellite communication safety service. This service offers distress alert, safety voice, and Maritime Safety Information (MSI) features, along with LRIT and SSAS. It provides fast, weather-resilient broadband service for ships’ business continuity, making it a crucial connectivity service for any ship’s network system.
The VMA is reviewing safety protocols at local terminals in response to the use of larger cargo vessels on key trade routes. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with updated standards and enhance safety and efficiency in maritime operations. Adapting infrastructure and protocols is crucial to meet the evolving needs of the shipping industry.
Efforts to remove the grounded small tanker, the 5,000 dwt Sanwa Maru, have been suspended by the Japan Coastguard. The vessel ran aground at the southern end of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, on January 6. Initial reports indicated no injuries or damage to the vessel, but a 5-degree list to starboard prompted the evacuation of most of the crew.
Finland’s public transport agency found serious deficiencies in the Eagle S tanker, suspecting it of damaging undersea cables in the Baltic Sea. The vessel, carrying Russian oil, is banned from operating until repairs are made. NATO plans to increase its presence in the region due to outages following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Inmarsat Maritime, supported by Maritime London, introduces SEA-CARE, a new industry group focused on enhancing maritime safety through collaboration. Led by Jos Standerwick and Peter Broadhurst, the group aims to leverage data sharing to address security challenges. By combining information and insights, SEA-CARE seeks to improve safety measures within the industry.
In late 2024, the container ship order book hit a new high of 8.3 million TEU, with 4.4 million TEU contracted. Chinese shipyards lead with 72% of orders, while liner operators control 79% of capacity. The fleet is aging, with a projected growth to 35.8 million TEU by 2029 if older ships are recycled.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the final version of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 12021, the “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,” to benefit Filipino seafarers. The IRR aims to enhance protection, welfare, and empowerment of seafarers, emphasizing one-stop-shop centers to simplify processes and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles.
The Vizhinjam Conclave 2025, scheduled for January 28 and 29 at the Hyatt Regency in Thiruvananthapuram, aims to explore industrial opportunities linked to the Vizhinjam International Seaport. With over 300 delegates and 50 investors expected to attend, the event will focus on signing at least 20 MoUs to boost economic growth in the region.
South Africa is strategically positioned as the Cape Sea Route sees a rise in shipping traffic due to risks in the Red Sea. Major companies are rerouting vessels, creating economic opportunities for key ports. However, challenges in safety and infrastructure must be addressed to ensure long-term success in the maritime industry.
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration is collaborating with the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Gujarat to develop a coastal Union Territory Pavilion. This initiative aims to showcase India’s rich maritime history through artefacts, exhibits, and traditional practices. Contributions are welcome to enrich the Pavilion and promote a deeper understanding of the country’s maritime heritage.
MMMA, a collaboration between MOL and Magsaysay Maritime Corporation, has been certified by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an “Authorized Seafarer Education Institution.” Graduates of MMMA’s Bachelor of Science program can now bypass the MLIT examination requirement when boarding Japanese-flagged vessels.
EU-funded researchers have developed the Common Information Sharing Environment (CISE) to enhance communication between maritime authorities. Led by Isto Matilla at Laurea University in Finland, the platform aims to address illegal activities at sea by improving cooperation. The system integrates surveillance systems across European countries to facilitate data exchange and coordination in monitoring sea borders.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has unveiled ambitious plans for capacity expansion at Kandla Port, with investments exceeding Rs 57,000 crore. This includes a new mega shipbuilding project worth Rs 30,000 crores and a cargo terminal outside Kandla Creek costing Rs 27,000 crores, aimed at boosting the port’s capacity by an additional 135 MTPA.
The Philippine government’s commitment to long-term maritime industry development has been well-received by key stakeholders. The updated Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028 Framework aims to enhance the sea transport system’s safety, reliability, efficiency, affordability, sustainability, and integration for passengers and shippers. It also focuses on increasing the capacity and production.
