News items selected for weekly newsletter
The International Maritime Organization’s Secretary-General has declared it illegal for nations to impose fees on vessels in international straits. This statement arises as Iran proposes tolls for ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supply, raising concerns about maritime law and regional stability.
The maritime transport sector is undergoing an energy transition with diverse fuel alternatives. Companies like A.P. Moller-Maersk and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines are implementing varied strategies to adapt. Maersk focuses on methanol and liquefied gas, while MOL explores LNG and biofuels, aiming for scalable zero-emission solutions by 2030.
Eighty countries condemned Iran and its Houthi allies for attacks threatening international trade and energy security, calling for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister highlighted the dangers posed by escalating conflicts, emphasizing a united front to protect maritime security and ensure stability in the region.
Five years post-implementation of the Seafarers’ Rights Code, over 1,000 shipping companies engage in RightShip’s Crew Welfare Self-Assessment, reflecting progress. Nonetheless, many seafarers still face inadequate conditions, including wage delays and insufficient crew numbers. Urgent action is needed to enhance mental health support and integrate welfare into operational decisions for sustainable improvement.
During the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Filipino seafarers, highlighting the significance of Republic Act 12021. He emphasized the need for enhanced protections amid rising security threats, including recent tragedies at sea, and called for collaboration to safeguard the rights and welfare of mariners.
ABS and Lomar Labs have established a Master Research Collaboration Agreement to promote innovative technologies in the maritime sector. This partnership aims to reduce emissions and enhance fuel efficiency by supporting startups. Their first project with Blaze Energy will test a compact fuel reformer for alternative fuels in commercial shipping.
On September 22, 2026, Synergy Marine Group and Cochin Shipyard Limited formalized their collaboration with a memorandum of understanding in Kochi. The agreement, signed by key executives, aims to combine CSL’s industrial capacity with Synergy’s shipbuilding expertise, enhancing project delivery and focusing on converting LNG carriers into floating storage units.
Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis emphasized the vital role of seafarer protection in achieving safe and competitive shipping practices during a maritime program in Athens. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, she highlighted its importance in safeguarding seafarers’ rights amid evolving industry challenges and technological advancements.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) is enhancing Indian seafarers’ safety through the Seafarers’ Emergency Support Network. This initiative, guided by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, builds on the eNavik tracking system to ensure swift assistance during emergencies, reflecting the government’s commitment to maritime workforce security.
During the 18th BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed Seafarers’ Emergency Support Network to protect crew members amid escalating maritime conflicts. This initiative aims to connect maritime authorities and diplomatic missions for distress alerts and medical assistance, addressing the urgent safety needs of seafarers in volatile shipping routes.
The World Shipping Council (WSC) is calling on governments to address a significant regulatory loophole related to lithium battery transport. With a projected surge in battery use, the lack of limits on exempt batteries in containers raises serious safety concerns, notably the risk of cargo fires at sea. Enhanced regulations are urgently needed.
At least 173 Indian seafarers are stranded in the Persian Gulf amid escalating attacks on commercial shipping. Recent incidents involving three vessels have raised safety concerns for Indian crews. India is actively monitoring the situation and advocating for seafarer safety while emphasizing the need to keep maritime routes open for global trade.
In September, India’s maritime sector made notable strides as the government advanced its Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. With 38 registered ship lessors managing 43 vessels, including 24 under the Indian flag, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted these developments at the India Ship Leasing Summit.
In a major shift impacting global shipping, Yemen’s Houthi movement has captured Perim Island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, alongside Dhubab town, enhancing their control over a crucial maritime route. This consolidation may favor Iran in its conflict with the U.S., potentially disrupting oil supplies and increasing prices internationally.
During Friday’s meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian underscored the essential need to protect navigational freedom and maritime commerce. Modi emphasized dialogue as a means to resolve disputes, reaffirming India’s commitment to regional stability amidst rising tensions and recent attacks affecting Indian nationals in the area.
