Italian policymakers, led by Minister Gigorgia Meloni, visited New Delhi and Mumbai to enhance maritime ties with India. The focus is on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, aiming to boost trade, defense, and the blue economy. Italy also seeks space cooperation with India and plans to collaborate on nuclear power systems.
In November 2024, DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform reported 27 new orders for alternative fueled vessels, primarily driven by LNG with 23 vessels ordered. The container segment led with 15 new orders, while the car carrier segment saw six new LNG-fueled vessels added. Four new orders for ammonia-fueled vessels were also recorded.
The Mission to Seafarers in the Philippines celebrated a decade of supporting seafarers and their families. Starting as a volunteer-led initiative, it has grown into a professional network with 17 chapters and 120 volunteers nationwide. The program offers welfare assistance, training courses, and partnerships with industry companies to address the evolving needs of seafarers.
The historic Bali Jatra festival, celebrating Odisha’s maritime legacy, made its debut in the UK at Townley Grammar School, Bexley. Hosted by the Odisha Society of United Kingdom (OSUK), the event attracted over 500 attendees, including dignitaries, cultural figures, and community leaders from both the UK and India.
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) and Knutsen NYK Carbon Carriers AS (KNCC) are working together on a constructability study for a 40,000 cbm liquefied CO2 vessel. This vessel will utilize KNCC’s LCO2-EP Cargo Tanks technology, developed with Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., to support CCS projects globally and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Egyptian authorities are urgently working to salvage the sinking VSG Glory near Quseir in the Red Sea Governorate. The cargo ship, carrying 21 crew members and tons of cargo, suffered a hull breach. Despite all crew members being rescued, efforts to stabilize the vessel are hindered by bad weather.
Panama has made history by registering 358 newly built ships, totaling over 8.5 million Gross Tonnage, solidifying its position as the world leader in ship registration. The Panama Maritime Authority’s strategic initiatives and incentives have attracted shipowners, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and advancement in the maritime sector.
ABL recently completed its role as marine warranty surveyor for the transport and re-installation of the floating storage and regasification unit Toscana off the coast of Livorno, Italy. The project for OLT Offshore LNG Toscana involved towing the FSRU to Genoa for maintenance before moving to Marseille for further work.
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) in Limassol is gearing up for the 2025 FuelEU Maritime regulation. With a vast fleet and global presence, BSM has embraced digital tools for emission management. The FuelEU Dashboard and Simulator aid in real-time data visualization, compliance monitoring, and cost estimation. BSM’s proactive stance ensures seamless compliance and value-added solutions for customers.
Vard, a Norwegian shipbuilder part of the Fincantieri Group, has received Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register for methanol fueling system on two offshore wind Commissioning Service Operation Vessels being built for North Star. These vessels, based on VARD 422 design, will feature new methanol-ready hybrid-propulsion solutions.
The UK ETS Authority is expanding the scheme to include maritime emissions and non-pipeline transport for carbon capture. The goal is to incentivize businesses to reduce emissions and invest in clean technologies. Changes to free allocation rules and recognition of carbon capture’s importance in achieving net-zero targets are planned.
The Cruise Bharat Mission launched by the central government aims to boost cruise tourism in India, targeting one million passengers and 400,000 jobs by 2029. The mission includes financial incentives, relaxing cabotage laws, and establishing a special fund. Three phases will focus on developing new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations.
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has developed a new technique to create a fingerprint for Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) biofuels, allowing the origins of the fuel’s feedstock to be determined. This method aims to address concerns about the authenticity and sustainability of biofuels in the shipping industry.
The Government of India is investing Rs 1,010 crore in developing Brahmaputra and Barak rivers in Assam, focusing on infrastructure for inland waterways, tourism, and transportation. Projects include slipway construction, terminals, and a religious tourism circuit, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth. Maintenance dredging and operational measures will ensure safe navigation for vessels.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) will increase the number of ships docking at Vizhinjam International Port in 2025. The Dragon and Jade services will connect Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia. Adani Ports plans to utilize the port for export containers, providing faster shipping to Europe. This collaboration will enhance trade opportunities and efficiency.
