Tragedy struck the KM Legenda Nusantara 99 off Southeast Sulawesi when a fire erupted, claiming the lives of two crew members. The vessel, en route from Jakarta to Morowali, was carrying 13 individuals when a suspected chemical leak ignited. Evacuation efforts were coordinated by Basarnas, ensuring the safety of all aboard.
On September 1, the U.S. intensified airstrikes against Iranian targets, raising tensions after direct confrontations between the two nations. The military actions followed threats from Iran’s IRGC against shipping. As oil prices surged nearly 4%, both countries prepared for further provocations, complicating hopes for de-escalation amid ongoing clashes.
At the International Maritime Organization gathering, the Secretary-General reaffirmed that decarbonisation remains a critical priority, despite diminished media attention. He urged early investment in green technologies, warning that failing to act could jeopardize the industry’s future. Emphasizing collaboration, he called for proactive involvement from younger professionals in shaping sustainable shipping policies.
Six Japanese industrial firms have partnered with JOGMEC to capture and transport 3.43 million tons of CO2 annually. Companies like Sumitomo Corporation and Mitsubishi Chemical will develop shared infrastructure for carbon capture at the Mizushima Industrial Complex, aiming to enhance efficiency and promote decarbonization across the region.
INTERTANKO has warned that mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz alone won’t restore normal shipping. While commending U.S. efforts, they note that clearing the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) is just one part of the solution. Decisions will rely on members’ risk assessments, as threats persist amidst evolving conditions.
On September 1, two supertankers transporting Saudi oil were struck by unidentified projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz, raising alarms over regional security. This incident, confirmed by shipping intelligence firms, reflects escalating tensions as Iran and the U.S. exert influence over critical energy routes, impacting global oil supply and prices.
The SMM 2026 exhibition has commenced in Hamburg, spotlighting key global maritime issues such as security, supply-chain resilience, decarbonisation, and digitalisation. With around 2,300 exhibitors and 50,000 attendees, industry leaders discussed adapting to geopolitical challenges, technological advancements, and the urgent need for international cooperation in maritime regulation and decarbonisation efforts.
Everllence has successfully completed full-scale testing of its 12-cylinder 175DF-M dual-fuel methanol engine in Frederikshavn, Denmark. Achieving over 95% methanol efficiency, the engine’s low-pressure port-fuel-injection simplifies fuel supply and reduces costs. With initial commercial orders secured, Everllence is poised to support maritime decarbonization efforts.
Inmarsat Maritime, part of Viasat, has launched a revolutionary Maritime Safety Data Hub, providing in-depth insights into risks impacting global shipping. By analyzing three years of GMDSS data and nearly 107,000 safety broadcasts from 2025, the platform identifies trends in weather hazards, operational pressures, and geopolitical instability affecting maritime safety.
Oil producers across the Americas have gained significantly during the Iran war, capturing market share from Middle Eastern exporters. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global oil supplies, leading to a surge in crude exports from the U.S., Canada, and Argentina, marking a potential realignment in global oil trade.
The European Union faces criticism for approving ship dismantling facilities that remain largely inactive while EU vessels are scrapped in South Asia. Environmental groups, including the NGO Shipbreaking Platform, argue that the EU’s decision to include Indian recyclers undermines its own regulations, as domestic recycling capacity remains underutilized.
Contract negotiations for unionized workers at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ shipbuilding division have stalled, prompting a partial strike starting September 2. The Metal Workers’ Union demands include a monthly pay increase, a significant bonus hike, and profit-sharing, asserting that workers deserve a stake in the industry’s recovery.
DP World’s Marine Services division celebrated the naming of its first methanol dual-fuel vessel, DP World London, in Aarhus, Denmark. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable supply chains. The event united key stakeholders to honor maritime traditions while emphasizing innovation and adaptability in evolving global markets.
In August 2026, Manta Marine Technologies (MMT) and Foreship by RINA formed a partnership to advance air lubrication technology in the maritime sector. MMT will manage the Manta Air Lubrication system, enhancing energy efficiency for large vessels by reducing friction. This collaboration aims to support shipowners’ decarbonization efforts effectively.
NYK has finalized the acquisition of a 50% stake in Avenir LNG Limited from Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd., establishing a joint ownership framework. This partnership aims to enhance LNG and bio-LNG bunkering operations, supporting the maritime industry’s transition to lower-emission fuels and aligning with global sustainability goals.
