ClassNK has released updated editions of two key documents: “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping (3rd Edition)” and “FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime (5th Edition).” These resources aim to help maritime stakeholders navigate new environmental regulations. The EU Emissions Trading System and FuelEU Maritime regulations will impact vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) completed a 24-day emergency response after the bulk carrier Swift Hangzhou experienced engine failure in the Coral Sea. Deployed tugboats and continuous monitoring prevented potential drift toward the Great Barrier Reef, highlighting AMSA’s crucial role in managing maritime incidents in sensitive environments.
A significant number of oil tankers are avoiding the Strait of Hormuz due to heightened tensions following recent U.S. and Israeli bombings in Iran. While some vessels continue to transit, many are paused at the strait’s entrance. This area is vital, with 20% of the world’s oil passing through daily.
On Saturday, Qatar’s Ministry of Transport announced a temporary halt to maritime traffic as a safety precaution due to regional developments. This measure aims to protect maritime operations, urging vessel owners and companies to comply. The ministry is coordinating with authorities to monitor the situation and ensure public safety.
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.
