The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) met with the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) to address critical grievances affecting Indian seafarers. Key issues included compensation for deceased seafarers’ families, wage disputes, and the need for stronger support systems. DG Shipping committed to prioritizing seafarer welfare and reviewing all concerns collaboratively.
The nine crew members of the LPG gas carrier CGAS Saturn have been safely released after a piracy incident off West Africa. The ordeal began on December 3 when pirates boarded the vessel, abducting the crew. Four remained on board, with one sustaining minor injuries. Repatriation is underway.
Six Filipino seafarers, who endured harsh conditions and over two months of unpaid wages, were safely repatriated to the Philippines from Suriname on December 26, 2025. Welcomed by DMW Assistant Secretary Maria Regina Angela Galias, they received immediate financial aid and support for their return, emphasizing the commitment to protect overseas workers’ rights.
As Nigeria prepares for a new tax regime in 2026, maritime stakeholders are calling for special considerations for seafarers. They argue that tailored protections are essential to prevent unfair burdens on a workforce that faces unique challenges. Advocates emphasize the need for tax exemptions and clear residency guidelines for seafarers.
Emeritus Professor Helen Sampson has received The Maritime Foundation Award for Best Book for her impactful work, Sea-Time: An Ethnographic Adventure. Her research highlights the harsh realities faced by seafarers, including deteriorating working conditions and job insecurity, advocating for essential improvements in their lives and working environments.
On December 20, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Ltd (NSML) selected 21 cadets for overseas sea-time training, addressing the global shortage of certified seafarers. This initiative includes 60 sea-time slots from Nigerian ship owners, enhancing local maritime skills. NSML’s Managing Director highlighted the commitment to industry growth and economic development.
On November 12, the Iranian Coast Guard seized a ship accused of diesel smuggling, detaining its 18-member crew, primarily from India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. While the crew is allowed to leave Iran, they face delays due to “technical issues” with the vessel’s operation, awaiting assistance from the Indian Embassy.
Singapore’s State Court sentenced 23-year-old Indonesian Febry Iswanto to eight months in prison and three strokes of the cane for his role in a human smuggling operation. Arrested with seven crew members, he pleaded guilty to aiding illegal entry into Singapore, receiving payment for his actions. Investigations continue into other crew members.
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Arsenio Dominguez, urged restraint amidst the escalating Black Sea conflict. He stressed the need to protect innocent seafarers and merchant vessels from being targeted, warning that rising tensions pose significant risks not only to human lives but also to the marine environment.
The Directorate General of Shipping is reforming the Certificate of Competency (CoC) examination to boost global employment for Indian seafarers. Aiming for a 20% share of the maritime workforce, these changes could create 220,000 jobs in five years, while enhancing safety and aligning with international standards.
Cyprus has renewed its collective agreement for seafarers on Cyprus-flagged vessels, effective from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. This three-year deal aligns local maritime labor standards with international norms, updating wage scales and compensation to meet ILO minimums, enhancing the competitiveness of the Cypriot shipping sector.
CMA CGM’s “She Sails” program, celebrating its first anniversary, has effectively doubled the number of women on board its vessels, increasing from 200 to 403. With a goal of 1,000 female seafarers by 2030, the initiative enhances maritime careers and fosters mentorship, inspiring future generations of women at sea.
Eco-anxiety is increasingly affecting younger seafarers as they confront climate change realities. With social media access, crews witness environmental crises firsthand, making these issues personal. In response, COLUMBIA blue has implemented mental health counseling and encourages crew contributions to sustainability efforts, reflecting a commitment to well-being and environmental responsibility.
A case has been filed against 24 candidates from the Engineering and Nautical Department for allegedly securing jobs using fraudulent Certificates of Competency (COC). The investigation, initiated by the Directorate General of Shipping, uncovered numerous fake entries linked to a Kolkata examination center, raising serious concerns about maritime employment integrity in India.
Vietnamese and Malaysian officials successfully rescued the crew of the cargo ship Kayo, which was dangerously listing. The crew, comprising 13 Vietnamese, one Indian, and one Bangladeshi, was safely transported to Malaysia. Ongoing efforts are in place to tow the vessel, which faced challenging weather conditions during the incident.
