As the shipping industry targets a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) systems have gained traction. Despite their technical feasibility, infrastructure challenges and regulatory recognition hinder widespread adoption. Effective decarbonization necessitates a cohesive carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) value chain.
ClassNK has validated the performance of the automated kite system, ‘Seawing,’ developed by Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha and OCEANICWING S.A.S. This validation, encapsulated in a Statement of Fact, highlights the system’s potential to meet environmental regulations and reduce fuel costs, reinforcing the maritime industry’s commitment to sustainability through wind-assisted propulsion systems.
Germany’s maritime sector is poised for significant growth, but industry leaders urge clearer political priorities and strong policy support. At a Hamburg press conference, they called for a national action plan to enhance shipbuilding and marine technology, emphasizing the need for skilled labor and collaboration to address structural challenges.
A heated debate on decarbonizing global shipping has emerged, particularly after criticism from SEA-LNG regarding a UCL Energy Institute study. SEA-LNG disputes the claim that green ammonia is the sole scalable fuel, advocating for the reconsideration of alternative fuels like methane and methanol in the industry’s decarbonization efforts.
ESL Shipping’s Swedish subsidiary, AtoB@C Shipping, has welcomed a new cargo vessel, the Astramar, from India’s Chowgule and Company. This addition, part of a series of twelve hybrid vessels, enhances the fleet’s capacity to transport various bulk and breakbulk goods, underscoring the company’s focus on sustainability and efficiency.
The IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) held its 12th session from March 9 to 13, 2026, focusing on amendments to the Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code. Notably, new requirements for partially enclosed lifeboats mandate CO₂ levels below 5,000 ppm, emphasizing ventilation standards and testing protocols for safety.
InterManager has raised serious concerns about the worsening security situation affecting commercial shipping in the Middle East Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Following recent attacks on merchant vessels, the organization urges ship managers and operators to exercise extreme caution and reassess the necessity of transiting this critical waterway.
South African authorities recently intercepted four Chinese fishing vessels—Zhong Yang 231, Zhong Yang 232, Zhong Yang 233, and Zhong Yang 239—for illegal fishing within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The vessels manipulated their identification systems and were fined over $24,000, highlighting ongoing issues with illegal fishing in the region.
On March 11, the Philippine Coast Guard responded to a capsized cargo ship in Cebu, rescuing the crew but tragically reporting a dockworker’s death. The Theresa I lost stability during a loading operation, leading to its capsizing. An investigation is underway as the Coast Guard monitors for potential oil leaks.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called an Extraordinary Council meeting on March 18-19 to discuss the impact of Middle East tensions on shipping and seafarers in critical maritime regions. This session, chaired by Victor Jiménez, aims to enhance maritime safety and security amid growing concerns from Council Members.
Amid heightened tensions in the U.S.-Israeli-Iranian conflict, Greek shipowners are risking dangerous passage through the Strait of Hormuz to capitalize on soaring oil prices. Despite warnings, at least twelve vessels have braved the perilous waters, motivated by potential earnings of up to $500,000 daily amid significant safety concerns.
Asian countries are enhancing maritime governance to address emerging challenges and promote legitimate sea use. S. Paramesh, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, emphasized this during the ReCAAP 20th anniversary in Singapore. He announced plans to modernize the fleet, highlighting regional collaboration’s importance for secure Indo-Pacific sea lanes.
The U.S. Treasury Department has issued a sanctions wind-down authorization allowing Russian oil vessels at sea to complete their journeys amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This license enables necessary transactions for loaded cargoes and supports essential maritime services, despite restrictions on Iran-related transactions. Effective until April 11.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has formally requested an apology from Iran after a Thai vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on March 11. The incident, which resulted in a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, has raised diplomatic tensions, prompting Thailand to seek clarification from Iran.
Swedish authorities have boarded the oil tanker Sea Owl I in the Baltic Sea, suspecting it operates under a false flag. The intervention, part of increasing maritime enforcement, raises concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and registration under the Comorian flag, which is unverified. Investigations are ongoing regarding its legal status.
