The UNHCR, IMO, and ICS have released a revised Rescue Guide to aid partners in their humanitarian and legal duties regarding refugees and migrants at sea. This update, amid tragic shipwrecks, emphasizes the need for collective action to prevent loss of life and uphold the duty to rescue without discrimination.
INTERCARGO has released its inaugural “Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers,” addressing the need for safe STS operations in regions with limited port infrastructure. These comprehensive guidelines cover planning, risk assessment, and emergency protocols, aiming to enhance safety and standardization in the dry bulk shipping industry.
A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could spark a global energy crisis, potentially driving oil prices near $200 per barrel. This chokepoint restricts over 11 million barrels daily, impacting LNG supply and prompting economic slowdowns. Wood Mackenzie’s scenarios range from rapid resolution to prolonged disruptions lasting until 2026.
DNV has launched a new recommended practice for using hydrogen as ship fuel, focusing on the competence requirements for crew and technical personnel. With safety concerns like leakage and high-pressure storage, proper training is essential. The RP aims to guide operational procedures and enhance emergency preparedness for hydrogen-fueled vessels.
Lloyd’s Register has launched the Lashing Exchange Format (LXF) consortium to streamline container stowage and lashing data sharing in shipping. This collaboration, involving major classification societies and software developers, aims to create a standardized digital format, enhancing efficiency and consistency across the industry amid growing operational demands.
The global shipping sector has issued vital guidelines for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Despite its open status, the region presents significant dangers. The 22-page advisory warns of high-stress conditions and highlights threats like electronic warfare and congestion, urging operators to reassess transit needs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Britain has decided to ease sanctions on diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude abroad, prioritizing national interests amid rising prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Junior treasury minister Dan Tomlinson emphasized the importance of securing essential supplies for the economy while still supporting Ukraine. Critics warn this could benefit the Kremlin.
IDsure, a digital identity infrastructure for the maritime sector, has secured €600,000 in seed funding. This investment will accelerate connections with flag states and training institutes, fostering a network of service providers. Aiming to revolutionize identity verification for over two million seafarers, IDsure offers aviation-grade verification and tamper-proof certificates.
On May 20, 2026, the South Korean supertanker Universal Winner commenced its inaugural journey through the Strait of Hormuz, carrying Kuwaiti crude oil. Two Chinese supertankers, Ocean Lily and Yuan Gui Yang, also navigated the strait, amid rising tensions and fears stemming from a previous attack on HMM’s vessels.
Danish shipping giant A.P. Moller-Maersk has launched its second methanol-powered container vessel, advancing its decarbonisation efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. The 9,000-TEU vessel, built by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, showcases dual-fuel engines and represents a pivotal shift towards sustainable fuels in the shipping industry amidst evolving regulatory pressures.
A recovery in tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz reveals a fragile situation, complicated by Iran’s new transit fees. Last week, 55 vessels transited the critical passage, up from 19. However, overall traffic remains below pre-conflict levels, raising concerns about ongoing disruptions in LNG trade and political tensions.
NATO is considering measures to safeguard shipping through the blocked Strait of Hormuz if it remains closed beyond early July, according to a senior official. Although several member nations support the idea, there is no unanimous agreement. Leaders will convene in Ankara on July 7-8 to discuss further actions.
The U.S. Treasury has extended its temporary sanctions wind-down authorization for Russian oil cargoes at sea until mid-June. General License 134C allows transactions related to oil loaded before April 17, 2026, but does not permit new trades. This aims to stabilize markets amid ongoing tensions affecting global energy.
A consortium led by Stillstrom has secured €5 million from the EU’s Horizon Europe program to develop offshore charging infrastructure for ships in Denmark. The three-year SPARK project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from stationary vessels by establishing a pilot Offshore Power Zone in Skagen, enhancing sustainable maritime operations.
Singapore has launched an updated Marine & Offshore Energy Industry Digital Plan (M&OE IDP) to aid over 1,000 companies in adopting AI and digital technologies. Announced at the RECHARGE Wind Power Summit 2026, the plan aims to enhance productivity and competitiveness while addressing challenges like labor shortages and rising operational costs.
