On May 21, the Ministry of Ports confirmed that Indian seafarers in West Asia are safe despite regional tensions. Mukesh Mangal assured no incidents involving Indian vessels occurred recently. The government is monitoring the situation closely, with over 3,300 seafarers repatriated and plans to send ships if conditions permit.
Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) achieved a record annual turnover of ₹1,214.09 crore in FY 2025-26, marking a 50-year milestone. With a Profit After Tax of ₹4.75 crore and a significant revenue surge of 73% in Q4, DCIL positions itself as a key player in India’s maritime infrastructure development.
The Mormugao Port Authority has implemented measures to bolster India’s energy security amid escalating geopolitical tensions near the Strait of Hormuz. Priority berthing will be given to vessels transporting essential commodities, alongside significant billing adjustments for exporters, easing cash flow challenges during ongoing shipping uncertainties in West Asia.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the stark contrasts in views between the U.S. and Iran regarding Tehran’s uranium stockpile and the Strait of Hormuz. While President Trump insists on recovering enriched uranium, Iran claims its programs are peaceful, complicating ongoing negotiations amid rising oil prices and international tensions.
Traffic through the Panama Canal is significantly rising, fueled by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. According to BIMCO Shipping Analysis, transits have increased 8% year-over-year, particularly in the tanker sector, with vessel movements up 16%. This surge has strained capacity, leading to longer wait times and escalating slot prices.
French engineering firm GTT has teamed up with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and BW LNG to create the first large-scale LNG carriers with a three-cargo-tank design. This innovative configuration, featuring the GTT Mark III Flex system, enhances cargo efficiency and reduces emissions, promising a sustainable future for LNG transport.
Iran’s self-appointed Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has asserted its control over the Strait of Hormuz, introducing a permission-based transit system. This move outlines a maritime zone extending from Kuh Mobarak to Fujairah, enhancing Iranian oversight amid escalating regional tensions and raising concerns among shipping operators about safety and security.
Nautika is set to launch the Nautika Prride, its fastest and most advanced catamaran, enhancing inter-island travel in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With a capacity of 400 passengers, this luxurious ferry can reach speeds of 24 knots and meets international safety standards, promising a superior travel experience.
The UNHCR, IMO, and ICS have released a revised Rescue Guide to aid partners in their humanitarian and legal duties regarding refugees and migrants at sea. This update, amid tragic shipwrecks, emphasizes the need for collective action to prevent loss of life and uphold the duty to rescue without discrimination.
India and Norway are strengthening collaboration in green energy, maritime industries, and digital infrastructure through the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). This initiative aims to attract USD 100 billion in investments and create one million jobs in India, signaling a shift towards long-term economic integration and innovation.
INTERCARGO has released its inaugural “Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers,” addressing the need for safe STS operations in regions with limited port infrastructure. These comprehensive guidelines cover planning, risk assessment, and emergency protocols, aiming to enhance safety and standardization in the dry bulk shipping industry.
A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could spark a global energy crisis, potentially driving oil prices near $200 per barrel. This chokepoint restricts over 11 million barrels daily, impacting LNG supply and prompting economic slowdowns. Wood Mackenzie’s scenarios range from rapid resolution to prolonged disruptions lasting until 2026.
DNV has launched a new recommended practice for using hydrogen as ship fuel, focusing on the competence requirements for crew and technical personnel. With safety concerns like leakage and high-pressure storage, proper training is essential. The RP aims to guide operational procedures and enhance emergency preparedness for hydrogen-fueled vessels.
Lloyd’s Register has launched the Lashing Exchange Format (LXF) consortium to streamline container stowage and lashing data sharing in shipping. This collaboration, involving major classification societies and software developers, aims to create a standardized digital format, enhancing efficiency and consistency across the industry amid growing operational demands.
Britain has decided to ease sanctions on diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude abroad, prioritizing national interests amid rising prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Junior treasury minister Dan Tomlinson emphasized the importance of securing essential supplies for the economy while still supporting Ukraine. Critics warn this could benefit the Kremlin.
