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INTERCARGO has released its inaugural “Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines for Bulk Carriers,” addressing the need for safe STS operations in regions with limited port infrastructure. These comprehensive guidelines cover planning, risk assessment, and emergency protocols, aiming to enhance safety and standardization in the dry bulk shipping industry.
DNV has launched a new recommended practice for using hydrogen as ship fuel, focusing on the competence requirements for crew and technical personnel. With safety concerns like leakage and high-pressure storage, proper training is essential. The RP aims to guide operational procedures and enhance emergency preparedness for hydrogen-fueled vessels.
Lloyd’s Register has launched the Lashing Exchange Format (LXF) consortium to streamline container stowage and lashing data sharing in shipping. This collaboration, involving major classification societies and software developers, aims to create a standardized digital format, enhancing efficiency and consistency across the industry amid growing operational demands.
Britain has decided to ease sanctions on diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude abroad, prioritizing national interests amid rising prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Junior treasury minister Dan Tomlinson emphasized the importance of securing essential supplies for the economy while still supporting Ukraine. Critics warn this could benefit the Kremlin.
IDsure, a digital identity infrastructure for the maritime sector, has secured €600,000 in seed funding. This investment will accelerate connections with flag states and training institutes, fostering a network of service providers. Aiming to revolutionize identity verification for over two million seafarers, IDsure offers aviation-grade verification and tamper-proof certificates.
During the Norway-India Business and Research Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ambitious incentives to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities, particularly in shipbuilding. He aims to increase India’s share of Norway’s ship construction from 10% to 25% in five years, promoting green initiatives and attracting global investment in strategic manufacturing.
NATO is considering measures to safeguard shipping through the blocked Strait of Hormuz if it remains closed beyond early July, according to a senior official. Although several member nations support the idea, there is no unanimous agreement. Leaders will convene in Ankara on July 7-8 to discuss further actions.
The United Kingdom Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS), launched in 2021, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050. Initially excluding maritime shipping, plans to include domestic shipping by 2026 will cover vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage, addressing 15% of related emissions. Further integration with the EU ETS is also being discussed.
Recently, Mumbai hosted a key session by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), focusing on the Gulf Crisis and its impact on global maritime trade. Senior officials and industry stakeholders, including Shri Vijay Kumar of MoPSW, discussed operational strategies, safety for Indian seafarers, and strengthening domestic maritime capabilities in response to geopolitical challenges.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has launched the Yacht Unlimited Certificate of Competency (CoC) for Deck Officers, allowing them to serve as Chief Mate or Master on yachts over 3,000 gross tonnage. This initiative streamlines career advancement while ensuring adherence to international maritime standards.
Hapag-Lloyd has launched the Shefarer initiative, in collaboration with Jebsen PTC, Anglo-Eastern Ship Management, and Marlow Navigation, to enhance gender diversity in maritime careers. The program aims to inspire women to join the sector, ensuring at least 20% of future cadet intakes are female, while also improving onboard facilities for women.
The Directorate General of Shipping has launched a 24×7 Grievance Redressal Mechanism to support India’s maritime community. This initiative offers seafarers and their families access to assistance via toll-free helplines, WhatsApp, and email, ensuring swift responses to operational and emergency concerns, reinforcing the commitment to their welfare.
Professor Momoko Kitada received the International Maritime Organization’s Gender Equality Award on May 18, 2026, during a ceremony in London. In her acceptance speech, she highlighted education’s crucial role in women’s economic stability and advocated for active engagement in gender equality. Her work promotes diversity and inclusion in maritime education.
The Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association (ZESTA) has launched the Global Liquid Hydrogen Alliance, promoting pure green hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel for maritime shipping. Following the MEPC 84 meeting, the initiative aims to bridge the deployment gap through enhanced technical evidence and a verifiable framework for liquid hydrogen technology.
This year’s IMO International Day for Women in Maritime, on May 18, focuses on achieving gender equality in the maritime industry. The theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” highlights the need for actionable steps to improve the lives of women, including seafarers and shore-based professionals.
