Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is expanding to the eastern seaboard by signing an MoU with Guidance Tamil Nadu. This development, formalized on September 19, 2025, underscores MDL’s commitment to establish a new shipyard, enhancing India’s maritime security and supporting national initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Maritime India Vision 2030.
Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport has quickly emerged as a vital maritime center since its commercial launch in December. Developed by Adani Ports, it recently welcomed its 500th vessel, showcasing its capability for ultra-large container ships. Within 10 months, Vizhinjam handled 1.1 million TEUs, marking significant growth in India’s shipping sector.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has signed a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding with HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering, announced at the ‘Samudra se Samriddhi’ event in Gujarat. This collaboration aims to enhance India’s shipbuilding capabilities, generate 2,000 jobs, and align with the Maritime India Vision 2030 initiative.
A British maritime authority reported an “explosion” near a vessel in the Gulf of Aden, off Yemen’s coast. This incident follows escalating attacks on commercial shipping by Houthi rebels amid the Gaza conflict. Fortunately, the ship sustained no damage, and the crew remained unharmed as investigations into the incident continue.
X-Press Feeders has declined to pay a $250 million judgment from the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka over environmental damage from the 2021 sinking of the XPress Pearl. The Singapore-based company is negotiating with authorities, fearing the ruling may set a precedent for future maritime incident resolutions.
The Bahamas has enacted a pivotal maritime regulation mandating that all cruise ships be navigated by trained Bahamian marine pilots. This initiative not only enhances safety and local expertise but also stimulates job creation in the maritime sector, fostering a new generation of professionals and bolstering the economy through increased tourism.
Police in Bonaire are searching for Jessica Collins, a 47-year-old American woman who did not return to her Carnival Cruise ship, the Horizon, after it docked on September 17. Though she texted a Carnival team member stating she was safe and wished to remain uncontacted, her whereabouts remain unknown.
The 2025 Genoa International Boat Show showcased a study revealing that 80% of Italian boat owners are over 50, with a notable concentration in urban areas like Rome and Milan. Women represent 13% of ownership, gradually increasing. Interestingly, income levels do not directly correlate with boat ownership trends.
The UK is set to launch a Maritime Innovation Hub in April 2026, aimed at accelerating decarbonization in the maritime sector. Hosted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, this initiative will support ship operators and technology developers in navigating regulatory frameworks to foster innovative solutions for sustainable shipping.
In a significant milestone, V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi achieved record cargo handling of 20 million tonnes on September 21, 2025. This accomplishment underscores its rapid growth, with a 0.61% increase in total cargo and a 6.93% rise in container traffic, solidifying its role as a key hub for international trade.
The event ‘Samudra se Samruddhi’ at Dhamra Port highlighted India’s commitment to becoming a maritime leader under the “Maritime Amritkal Vision 2047.” Attended by key officials, it showcased policies and projects vital for economic growth, emphasizing local production and innovation as essential for strengthening India’s maritime sector.
Alang, Gujarat, one of the world’s largest ship-breaking yards, is experiencing a modest recovery with a 13% increase in ship arrivals from April to August 2025. This year, 44 vessels were beached for dismantling, up from 39 last year. Despite ongoing challenges, government support is aiding the struggling industry.
Sperry Marine will supply Integrated Bridge Systems for two hydrogen-powered, autonomous-ready container ships commissioned by Samskip Group. Set for delivery in 2027, these vessels will be the first to use zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells and advanced navigation systems, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 25,000 tonnes annually.
The International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) has established the IMPA Foundation to address workforce challenges in the maritime industry, particularly the shortage of mariners. Captain Simon Pelletier emphasizes the need for initiatives that attract young talent and provide education, mentorship, and support to build a resilient, skilled workforce for the future.
The Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) has signed four MOUs with key maritime partners to enhance opportunities for scholarships and internships for local youth. These partnerships, including with Jurong Port and the Singapore Shipping Association, aim to cultivate a skilled workforce, ensuring a sustainable future for Singapore’s maritime industry.
