ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for a liquefied CO2 carrier intended for a floating offshore carbon capture and storage facility. Designed for deepwater deployment with a Socket SPAR unit, this vessel meets regulatory and safety standards, supporting Japan’s Environmentally Friendly CCS Demonstration Project and addressing CO2 handling challenges.
On March 25, 2026, the Myanmar Seafarers Federation (MSF) announced a survey to assess the experiences of seafarers and their families regarding social development. Captain Soe Min Aung highlighted the importance of understanding seafarers’ needs, particularly concerning collective bargaining agreements and employment contracts, to enhance their rights and protections.
On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the critical situation in the Middle East, particularly the significance of the Strait of Hormuz. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to de-escalation, noting the strait’s essential role in global trade, especially regarding India’s crude oil imports, amid rising tensions.
A new pilot program aims to revolutionize the maritime sector by introducing digital identity systems for seafarers, replacing traditional paper verification. Launched by SITA, Columbia Shipmanagement, and IDsure, this initiative will streamline identity checks and enhance operational efficiency, marking a significant step toward digital transformation in maritime operations.
BIMCO has launched “Seafarers Deserve Fairer Seas,” a film highlighting the urgent need for better protections for the global maritime workforce. Coinciding with a position paper on maritime workforce sustainability, the initiative addresses the challenges faced by seafarers, particularly amidst geopolitical tensions and rising mental strain due to current crises.
Argentina has significantly boosted its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) exports to India, effectively doubling shipment volumes to address supply gaps from West Asian energy route disruptions, especially in the Strait of Hormuz. Indian importers are leveraging Argentina’s enhanced capacity and competitive pricing, marking a strategic shift in LPG sourcing.
Korea is exploring collaboration with India in shipbuilding and marine equipment manufacturing, recognizing India’s potential in ship repair and construction. This partnership could enhance technological exchanges and economic benefits, fostering mutual growth. As both nations engage, the initiative promises advancements in maritime technology and a more resilient maritime ecosystem.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) is exploring a four-year concession extension for the Nhava Sheva International Container Terminal (NSICT), expiring June 30, 2027. This proposal aims to align NSICT’s tenure with the adjacent DP World-operated terminal until 2031, facilitating a unified mega-terminal strategy for India’s largest container port.
DNV has launched RuleAgent, an AI-driven tool designed for maritime professionals to navigate extensive rules and standards efficiently. Users can ask questions in natural language and receive precise answers from DNV’s regulatory database, which contains over 30,000 pages of rules. The tool enhances access to technical knowledge in a complex regulatory landscape.
The ongoing conflict in Iran is severely affecting the gas sector, leading to higher prices in Europe and Asia. Gas infrastructure, more complex than oil refineries, faces longer recovery times. With rising demand and reduced Qatari LNG exports, the market is shifting, prompting consumers to consider alternatives like solar energy.
The IMO-Republic of Korea SMART-C Women Project empowers women in the Asia-Pacific maritime sector through targeted online training. In March 2026, 40 female professionals from various countries participated, enhancing their competencies in decarbonization, digitalization, and gender empowerment. The initiative fosters inclusivity and aims to increase women’s participation in maritime careers.
The Indian government has reinstated full benefits under the RoDTEP scheme for exporters impacted by the West Asia crisis, addressing rising logistics costs and supply chain issues linked to the Strait of Hormuz closure. This restoration is vital for labor-intensive sectors facing heightened freight rates and War Risk Surcharges, ensuring competitiveness amidst challenges.
Malaysian authorities have detained two oil tankers near Pulau Jarak for allegedly conducting unauthorized fuel transfers. Inspections revealed the vessels lacked necessary permits and were anchored in restricted waters. Approximately 750 metric tonnes of Marine Fuel Oil were transferred. The case is under investigation for violations of maritime regulations.
Ship-refueling companies along Africa’s coast are thriving as vessels reroute around the Cape of Good Hope due to conflicts in the Middle East. Increased demand for bunkering services has prompted investment from both established suppliers and newcomers. However, challenges like piracy and infrastructure limitations could impact long-term growth.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) is essential to India’s energy security, recently welcoming the oil tanker Aqua Titan with 96,099 tonnes of crude oil and the Pysix Pioneer carrying 16,714 tonnes of LPG. These shipments reflect the government’s proactive measures to stabilize fuel supply amid global uncertainties.
