The IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) held its 12th session from March 9 to 13, 2026, focusing on amendments to the Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code. Notably, new requirements for partially enclosed lifeboats mandate CO₂ levels below 5,000 ppm, emphasizing ventilation standards and testing protocols for safety.
InterManager has raised serious concerns about the worsening security situation affecting commercial shipping in the Middle East Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Following recent attacks on merchant vessels, the organization urges ship managers and operators to exercise extreme caution and reassess the necessity of transiting this critical waterway.
South African authorities recently intercepted four Chinese fishing vessels—Zhong Yang 231, Zhong Yang 232, Zhong Yang 233, and Zhong Yang 239—for illegal fishing within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The vessels manipulated their identification systems and were fined over $24,000, highlighting ongoing issues with illegal fishing in the region.
On March 11, the Philippine Coast Guard responded to a capsized cargo ship in Cebu, rescuing the crew but tragically reporting a dockworker’s death. The Theresa I lost stability during a loading operation, leading to its capsizing. An investigation is underway as the Coast Guard monitors for potential oil leaks.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called an Extraordinary Council meeting on March 18-19 to discuss the impact of Middle East tensions on shipping and seafarers in critical maritime regions. This session, chaired by Victor Jiménez, aims to enhance maritime safety and security amid growing concerns from Council Members.
Amid heightened tensions in the U.S.-Israeli-Iranian conflict, Greek shipowners are risking dangerous passage through the Strait of Hormuz to capitalize on soaring oil prices. Despite warnings, at least twelve vessels have braved the perilous waters, motivated by potential earnings of up to $500,000 daily amid significant safety concerns.
Asian countries are enhancing maritime governance to address emerging challenges and promote legitimate sea use. S. Paramesh, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, emphasized this during the ReCAAP 20th anniversary in Singapore. He announced plans to modernize the fleet, highlighting regional collaboration’s importance for secure Indo-Pacific sea lanes.
The U.S. Treasury Department has issued a sanctions wind-down authorization allowing Russian oil vessels at sea to complete their journeys amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This license enables necessary transactions for loaded cargoes and supports essential maritime services, despite restrictions on Iran-related transactions. Effective until April 11.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has formally requested an apology from Iran after a Thai vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on March 11. The incident, which resulted in a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, has raised diplomatic tensions, prompting Thailand to seek clarification from Iran.
Swedish authorities have boarded the oil tanker Sea Owl I in the Baltic Sea, suspecting it operates under a false flag. The intervention, part of increasing maritime enforcement, raises concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and registration under the Comorian flag, which is unverified. Investigations are ongoing regarding its legal status.
A Turkish-owned ship, the Rozana, has successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz after receiving Iranian permission, as confirmed by Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu. Amid ongoing tensions, discussions continue regarding 14 other Turkish vessels awaiting passage. The situation has led to significant flight cancellations by Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
At the Women Forward Summit, Melina Travlos highlighted the critical need for gender equality in various sectors, particularly in the male-dominated shipping industry. She urged a shift in mindset to ensure equal opportunities for women, emphasizing their significant contributions and advocating for greater visibility in both maritime professions and society at large.
Norway has banned its merchant vessels from entering the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating attacks amidst the U.S.–Iran conflict. This significant shift from advisory status to an outright prohibition reflects a critical security threat level. The ban impacts global oil shipments, with vessels assessing their own operational risks before deciding to stay or leave.
The Alan Turing Institute, Lloyd’s Register, and the Lloyd’s Register Foundation are collaborating to create an open-source framework for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). This initiative aims to enhance safety and efficiency through comprehensive guidance on software applications and engineering processes, ensuring compliance throughout the lifecycle of autonomous systems.
MacGregor’s new Balanced Lashing System addresses uneven load distribution in container ship lashings. By utilizing elastic elements akin to hatch cover pads, it ensures even force distribution, enhancing safety and increasing payload capacity by up to 10%. The upgrade is simple, requiring only upper turnbuckle replacement, promising improved lashing efficiency.
