News items selected for weekly newsletter
The United States and Iran have agreed to a temporary ceasefire and partially reopen the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for global shipping. President Trump announced a pause in U.S. bombing operations for two weeks, while Iran confirmed regulated vessel transits, raising concerns over potential shipping restrictions and heightened war-risk premiums.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has confirmed the safety of Indian seafarers in the Western Persian Gulf. No incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels were reported in the past 24 hours. Two LPG carriers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the safety of operations amid geopolitical concerns.
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority’s FY 2025-26 trade data reveals remarkable growth, with exports increasing by 19.4% to 33.67 million tonnes, driven by demand for manufactured goods. Imports rose by 5.5%, totaling 57.45 million tonnes. Overall throughput reached a record 90.3 million tonnes, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency across various cargo types.
Cost-cutting measures and poor governance have left Europe’s maritime transport sector vulnerable amid crises like the ongoing conflict in Iran, warns the European Transport Workers’ Federation. An open letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlights the risks to over 20,000 stranded EU seafarers facing increased threats and extended voyages.
The Liberian Registry has urged maritime stakeholders to enhance seafarer compliance frameworks to meet evolving regulations. With advanced digital systems, the Registry is integrating compliance checks in the seafarer application process, improving identity verification and document integrity. This proactive strategy aims to bolster responsible vessel operations and uphold the Liberian flag’s integrity.
Financial support for seafarer training in the UK has received a boost with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) extension of the Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) program until March 31, 2027. This initiative, funded by the Department for Transport, aims to enhance skills for cadets and junior officers.
![Rise Of The [Hull Clening] Robots](https://i0.wp.com/crewmirror.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rise-of-the-Hull-Cleaning-Robots-A-New-Era-Begins.jpg?resize=600%2C400&ssl=1 "Embracing Hull Cleaning Robots for Biofouling Control")
For centuries, shipowners have struggled with biofouling, which increases drag and reduces efficiency. Traditional methods like antifouling coatings are evolving as robotic cleaning systems emerge. These innovations not only enhance efficiency and cut emissions but also offer significant cost savings, transforming hull maintenance into a crucial operational strategy for modern fleets.
On National Maritime Day, India announced a ₹48,862 crore project for the International Container Transshipment Port at Galathea Bay, receiving approval from the Public-Private Partnership Appraisal Committee. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s international shipping position, maintaining a 55% stake for an Indian entity. Prime Minister Modi emphasized enhancing maritime capabilities for economic growth.
Despite global initiatives to enhance diversity, women remain underrepresented in the maritime sector, particularly at sea. The latest IMO-WISTA survey reveals that women constitute only 1% of seafarers in surveyed organizations. Without addressing structural barriers, the industry risks losing emerging female talent and future leaders, impacting operational performance and innovation.
The Strait of Hormuz crisis intensifies as Iran demands sovereignty and imposes a $2 million transit fee per vessel, payable in Chinese yuan. With nearly 2,000 vessels stranded, new tolls may generate $600-800 million monthly. The IRGC’s toll system has turned this vital chokepoint into a pay-to-pass checkpoint, complicating global shipping.
On April 5, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated National Maritime Day, highlighting India’s maritime heritage and the vital contributions of individuals in the sector. He affirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing maritime potential for economic growth. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal echoed this, envisioning India as a top global maritime power.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Shipping Ministry announced the safe return of 30 seafarers from Gulf airports, raising total repatriations to 253. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its maritime workforce during challenging times, while ensuring uninterrupted operations at major ports through prioritized berthing of LPG carriers from global locations.
Two Indian-flagged vessels, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 92,700 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Gulf nations. They are headed to Mundra and Kandla ports in Gujarat, expected to arrive by March 16 or 17, amid ongoing regional tensions.
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.
In response to escalating security concerns in the Gulf region, India is intensifying its vigilance over Indian-flagged vessels and crews. Monitoring three key ships in the Gulf of Oman, the government ensures the safety of 76 seafarers aboard, while establishing a 24/7 helpline for support during these turbulent times.
