ClassNK has released updated editions of two key documents: “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping (3rd Edition)” and “FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime (5th Edition).” These resources aim to help maritime stakeholders navigate new environmental regulations. The EU Emissions Trading System and FuelEU Maritime regulations will impact vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage.
Kolkata recently hosted a significant Symposium on Seafarers’ Recruitment and Welfare, organized by the Directorate General of Shipping. Key stakeholders, including RPSL holders and industry officials, discussed enhancing India’s maritime manpower ecosystem. Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde addressed challenges in recruitment, emphasizing transparency and ethical practices to protect seafarer rights.
India must shift from foreign shipping reliance to develop its own maritime ecosystem, emphasizes Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. He highlights the importance of self-sufficiency, green shipping fuels, and enhanced shipbuilding. Initiatives like the Sagarmala projects aim to improve port infrastructure, fostering coastal community development and positioning India competitively in global shipping.
During the Seafarers’ Recruitment and Welfare Symposium in Kolkata, Minister Shantanu Thakur inaugurated vital maritime projects, including the Seafarers’ Outreach Centre and MMD Office. He emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing maritime support systems and fostering a technology-driven, welfare-focused maritime administration, aiming to enhance India’s global competitiveness.
Seabound has achieved a major milestone with the launch of its first full-scale onboard carbon capture systems at its Doncaster hub. Celebrated at the “Seabound Sendoff,” the event attracted over 70 attendees. The systems will be installed on the UBC Cork, a cement carrier, marking a significant step in maritime decarbonisation.
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has launched IMCA Skills, a digital learning hub focused on enhancing competence in the marine industry. Its initial offering, a Dynamic Positioning CPD program, consolidates resources into a user-friendly platform, promoting easier navigation and progress tracking for professional development in offshore operations.
The Department of Migrant Workers and the Philippine Embassy in Finland commended 19 Filipino crew members of the Cymona Eagle for their heroic rescue of Finnish rower Jari Saario. After his boat was damaged in a storm, the crew navigated treacherous conditions to save him, showcasing exceptional seamanship and humanitarian spirit.
Everllence has made strides in CO₂-neutral propulsion systems with its upgraded test bench in Augsburg for hydrogen combustion. This advancement, part of the HydroPoLEn project, aims to develop sustainable maritime solutions. Key partners, including Tenneco and the Technical University of Munich, are collaborating to enhance hydrogen technology for shipping.
The barge Defiant was successfully refloated from the shoreline of Castillo San Felipe del Morro early Wednesday, just before high tide. Tugboats and salvage crews worked meticulously, pressurizing cargo tanks to ensure a smooth operation. Capt. Luis J. Rodríguez praised the collaborative efforts that safeguarded San Juan’s maritime transportation and environment.
Swiss marine power company WinGD has achieved a milestone by completing Type Approval Testing and Factory Acceptance Testing for its ammonia-fueled two-stroke engine, the X52DF-A-1.0. Conducted in January 2026 in South Korea, these tests mark a significant step towards eco-friendly marine propulsion, with lower emissions compared to traditional diesel engines.
The Indian Directorate General of Shipping has issued a warning to seafarers and shipping stakeholders against traveling to Iran due to rising security concerns. Following prior advisories, Indian nationals in Iran are urged to leave immediately and maintain contact with the Embassy for assistance. RPSL companies are advised to halt deployments to the region.
CK Hutchison reported that Panamanian authorities threatened criminal charges against their employees if they do not vacate two key canal ports amid a legal dispute. The company’s subsidiary, Panama Ports Company, had contracts canceled after a Supreme Court ruling, escalating tensions amidst U.S. concerns over Chinese influence in the region.
On February 23, 2023, the ILO and IMO marked the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). This treaty has greatly improved seafarers’ working conditions globally, promoting fair competition in shipping. It established enforceable standards for employment, wages, and health care, ensuring decent work at sea.
On the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, Human Rights at Sea urged Australia’s Transport Minister, Catherine King, to improve seafarer welfare services. Sue Dight, from Mission to Seafarers, is seeking funding across Australia, emphasizing the need for a coordinated national framework to support over 500,000 seafarers annually.
