The European Union will soon become an observer of the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment, a regional framework to combat piracy, armed robbery, and other illegal maritime activities in the North-Western Indian Ocean. This move signals the EU’s commitment to strengthening global maritime security and protecting trade interests.
ABS has released an industry-first advisory on methanol bunkering, expanding its guidance on methanol as a marine fuel. The advisory addresses the challenges of bunkering methanol and provides strategies to overcome them. ABS President John McDonald highlighted the importance of supporting the safe adoption of methanol in the maritime industry.
ABB’s test vessel with Dynafit promises superior maneuverability, instant thrust control, and precise dynamic positioning capabilities for up to 85% open-water efficiency. The modular concept can be optimized for various operator needs, ship types, and hull types. The system is suitable for vessels with electric, fuel-cell, or hybrid systems, ideal for sensitive marine areas.
Maritime Robotics and AKVA group Helgeland Plast announced on Earth Day their collaboration to manufacture Maritime Robotics’ Mariner USV hulls using climate-neutral materials. This shift from fossil to plant-based materials supports a greener future without compromising quality and safety, showcasing a commitment to sustainability in maritime technology.
Alfa Laval will provide Rio Tinto with the OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication system, enhancing ship propulsion efficiency and energy savings. Rio Tinto selected OceanGlide for one of its bulk carriers to boost vessel energy efficiency and decarbonize shipping. The system reduces drag by 50-75%, leading to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) and the International Group of P&I Clubs (IGP&I) signed a MoU to promote education and training of marine liability in Singapore. The collaboration aims to provide high-quality maritime education and develop talent for the industry, offering courses on topics like P&I insurance and safety at sea.
Seafarers in international trade often find newer, fancier ships offer better quality of life and career growth. Idwal survey data confirms general cargo ships lag in crew connectivity and overall quality compared to other vessel classes. Lack of internet access on 13% of ships is concerning for crew welfare. General cargo ships also struggle with maintenance, crew health, and workload management.
A cargo ship from Russia previously held in Germany on suspicion of violating sanctions can now freely leave the port of Rostock, as confirmed by the Stralsund main customs office. The Atlantic Navigator II was carrying birch wood for the US, subject to EU sanctions but not US sanctions. Prosecutors revealed further details about the ship’s operations and detainment.
A Japanese consortium led by Imoto Lines and Marindows is developing a next-generation containership to operate emissions-free and address the shortage of seafarers in Japan. The vessel will use containerized batteries and a hybrid powertrain, with plans to incorporate low-environment impact technologies in the future. Scheduled for completion in January 2027.
Iranian state media reported activation of air defense against UAVs near Isfahan. Maritime security warns ships to be cautious in Arabian Gulf due to recent UAV activity. Attacks may be in retaliation for Iran’s actions, increasing tensions in the region. British military advises vigilant reporting of suspicious activity at sea.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated due to Israel’s campaign in Gaza, leading to clashes with Iranian-aligned groups. The seizure of the MSC Aries container ship by Iran prompted shipping industry associations to urge for enhanced military presence to protect seafarers from further aggression in the region. Recent attacks have also impacted global maritime transport.
Fortinet and Samsung Heavy Industries have partnered to enhance maritime cybersecurity in compliance with IACS standards. The MOU signing ceremony included key representatives from both companies, highlighting Samsung’s expertise in shipbuilding and Fortinet’s objective to strengthen global cooperation in maritime cybersecurity. The collaboration aims to address cyber threats and ensure compliance with new regulations.
New data shows a 14% increase in EU shipping sector carbon emissions, monitored by Kayrros. Ship diversions due to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are the main cause, leading to additional CO2 emissions. This poses a challenge to decarbonization efforts and hinders progress towards net zero emissions.
Canada’s Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez has increased fines for violations of the Canada Shipping Act of 2001 to a maximum of CAD 250,000. The penalty structure now includes minor, moderate, and major penalties, reflecting the seriousness of offenses at sea. This change is part of Canada’s Ocean Protection Plan to ensure maritime safety.
Europe’s busiest port, the Port of Rotterdam, saw a 1.4% decrease in throughput in Q1 2024, handling 110.1 million tons compared to 111.7 million tons in 2023. CEO Boudewijn Siemons noted declining energy costs impacted industrial sectors, although container throughput rose by 2%, suggesting a possible uptick in global trade.
