The U.S. Treasury has ramped up economic pressure on Iran, sanctioning over 30 entities and vessels to disrupt its shadow fleet and arms procurement. Secretary Scott Bessent noted that these measures aim to hinder Iran’s illicit operations, which undermine international laws and contribute to regional instability, affecting ordinary citizens.
The Hong Kong-flagged tanker Sea Horse, carrying fuel likely destined for Cuba, has halted navigation in the Atlantic, impacting the oil-dependent nation. U.S. Treasury recently allowed companies to seek licenses to resell Venezuelan oil to Cuba, amid dwindling supplies and ongoing sanctions affecting the island’s energy crisis.
Iran has significantly increased its oil loading operations, preparing for potential U.S. military action. Exports from Kharg Island soared to about 20.1 million barrels between February 15 and 20, nearly tripling January’s figures. This surge reflects Iran’s strategy to maximize oil turnover amid heightened military tensions in the region.
The maritime industry is on the brink of transformation, with clean energy technologies taking center stage at the Asia Pacific Maritime (APM) 2026. Scheduled for March 25-27 in Singapore, the exhibition will feature innovations in renewable fuels, battery-powered vessels, and hybrid systems, addressing urgent sustainability challenges in shipping.
Seabound has achieved a major milestone with the launch of its first full-scale onboard carbon capture systems at its Doncaster hub. Celebrated at the “Seabound Sendoff,” the event attracted over 70 attendees. The systems will be installed on the UBC Cork, a cement carrier, marking a significant step in maritime decarbonisation.
Cuban forces reportedly killed four individuals and injured six aboard a Florida-based speedboat that entered Cuban waters and opened fire on a patrol unit. Amid rising tensions with the U.S., Cuba’s Interior Ministry announced an investigation. The U.S. is scrutinizing the incident, with calls for federal inquiries into the use of lethal force.
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has launched IMCA Skills, a digital learning hub focused on enhancing competence in the marine industry. Its initial offering, a Dynamic Positioning CPD program, consolidates resources into a user-friendly platform, promoting easier navigation and progress tracking for professional development in offshore operations.
The Drewry World Container Index has reported a 1% drop in global shipping rates to $1,899 for a 40-foot container, marking the seventh consecutive week of decline. The usual pre-Lunar New Year surge is absent, compounded by uncertainty from new U.S. tariff policies, placing continued pressure on global trade routes.
Everllence has made strides in CO₂-neutral propulsion systems with its upgraded test bench in Augsburg for hydrogen combustion. This advancement, part of the HydroPoLEn project, aims to develop sustainable maritime solutions. Key partners, including Tenneco and the Technical University of Munich, are collaborating to enhance hydrogen technology for shipping.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) successfully completed a 24-day operation to assist the Liberian-flagged vessel Swift Hangzhou, which suffered engine failure in the Coral Sea. This critical initiative protected the Great Barrier Reef, with AMSA deploying tugs and monitoring the situation to ensure crew welfare and environmental safety.
The barge Defiant was successfully refloated from the shoreline of Castillo San Felipe del Morro early Wednesday, just before high tide. Tugboats and salvage crews worked meticulously, pressurizing cargo tanks to ensure a smooth operation. Capt. Luis J. Rodríguez praised the collaborative efforts that safeguarded San Juan’s maritime transportation and environment.
Swiss marine power company WinGD has achieved a milestone by completing Type Approval Testing and Factory Acceptance Testing for its ammonia-fueled two-stroke engine, the X52DF-A-1.0. Conducted in January 2026 in South Korea, these tests mark a significant step towards eco-friendly marine propulsion, with lower emissions compared to traditional diesel engines.
The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has launched a new subsidy program under the Maritime Master Plan to support sustainable maritime technologies. Announced on February 20, this initiative allocates €33.6 million for projects focused on demonstration vessels powered by alternative fuels, aiming to position the Netherlands as a leader in maritime innovation.
Croatia is assessing the legality of importing Russian crude oil to aid Hungary and Slovakia after the Druzhba pipeline’s damage halted deliveries. While Croatia’s Adria pipeline can transport oil, it currently supplies non-Russian crude. Disputes over capacity persist, and tensions rise as Hungary vetoes new EU sanctions against Russia.
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of the Columbia Group, emphasizes the need for the shipping industry to enhance self-regulation and collaborate with reliable partners amid evolving political and regulatory challenges. He highlights the importance of maintaining high safety standards and vetting partners to navigate an increasingly complex landscape effectively.
