World Fuel Services and West Coast Clean Fuels have launched a methanol bunkering service in U.S. ports, following a successful pilot in South Florida. This scalable, regulatory-compliant operation features U.S. Coast Guard-approved procedures, enabling shipowners to adopt lower-emission fuels, meeting the shipping industry’s evolving environmental standards.
Indian seafarers in West Asia are reported safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 48 hours, according to the Shipping Ministry. Mukesh Mangal confirmed that 18 vessels and 485 crew members are under close observation, while port operations in India remain smooth, with no congestion reported.
India is emerging as a crucial supplier of alternative fuel for Asian economies, particularly during the West Asia crisis. Diesel exports to Southeast Asia hit a seven-year peak in March 2026, driven by reduced Gulf output. India’s geographical advantage enables quicker deliveries, enhancing foreign exchange earnings and refinery margins.
The United Nations International Maritime Organization reports that approximately 20,000 seafarers are stranded on 2,000 vessels in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing Middle East conflict. With 19 attacks reported since February 28, 2026, conditions onboard are deteriorating, prompting urgent calls for de-escalation and safe evacuation of crew members.
ArkEdge Space successfully launched its micro-satellite AE1a on March 30, marking a significant milestone in maritime digitalization. Designed to enhance vessel tracking and communication, AE1a utilizes a standardized 6U satellite bus with a deployable antenna for VDES applications. It will work with two other satellites to expand maritime capabilities.
On March 31, President Trump declared that ‘the hard part’ of the Iran conflict is over, signaling a potential military reduction. Despite this, the Strait of Hormuz is still closed to commercial shipping, drastically affecting maritime traffic. The ongoing crisis raises significant concerns about global energy markets and regional security.
Safesea Group is demanding an independent international investigation into the attack on its oil tanker, MT Safesea Vishnu, which killed crew member Deonandan Singh. The incident, attributed to an alleged Iranian suicide boat, raises serious maritime security concerns. Safesea urges enhanced coastal security and vessel monitoring in Iraqi waters.
An oil tanker leased by QatarEnergy was hit by an Iranian cruise missile in Qatari waters, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. Of three missiles launched, two were intercepted, but the third struck the tanker, Aqua 1. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and environmental impact was minimal.
On the first day of the new financial year, the Indian government launched vital trade reforms to bolster exporters. The RoDTEP scheme is extended until September 30, 2026, ensuring stability amid rising logistics costs. Additionally, the cap on consignment values for international courier exports has been removed, facilitating easier access to global markets.
The environmental activist vessel Bandero collided with the Norwegian krill harvester Antarctic Sea near Antarctica, damaging its hull. Initially deemed accidental, the Captain Paul Watson Foundation later asserted it was deliberate, aiming to disrupt krill fishing and protect marine ecosystems. Aker QRILL maintains that their operations do not significantly harm krill stocks.
VPS has reported an increase in shale oil components in Singapore’s VLSFO marine fuels, raising concerns despite no operational issues. Testing revealed 90,000 metric tons containing Estonian Shale Oil compounds, leading to elevated acid numbers. VPS recommends enhanced monitoring and clarification from suppliers to mitigate potential long-term operational risks.
In response to the Hormuz crisis, India has updated its transshipment regulations to improve cargo handling at its ports, aiming to attract volumes diverted from the Persian Gulf. This adjustment reduces dwell times and enhances efficiency, positioning Indian terminals as competitive alternatives amid regional instability and boosting local energy supply chains.
The International Chamber of Shipping and the International Transport Workers’ Federation met with Gulf State representatives to address the severe impact of ongoing conflict on seafarers. With 20,000 stranded and facing dire conditions, discussions focused on urgent initiatives, including a reporting mechanism for resupply concerns and prioritizing seafarers as essential workers.
INTERCARGO gathered shipowners, charterers, insurers, and service providers in Athens on March 31 to tackle the rise of ship-to-ship (STS) transfers in dry bulk shipping. As larger vessels and limited port infrastructure drive offshore cargo movement, the industry seeks a unified approach to ensure safe and efficient STS operations.
The lack of cooperation between labor organizations and ship owners jeopardizes seafarers’ safe return home. The ITF highlights the need for coordinated interventions, especially in high-risk areas like the Arabian Gulf. With a record 409 abandoned vessels in 2025, many seafarers face dire conditions, both physically and emotionally.
