On May 28, 2025, Thailand’s cabinet approved amendments to the Maritime Labour Act, enhancing seafarer protections to meet international standards. The revisions include employment contracts under the Social Security Act, prohibiting underage employment, and granting the Marine Department authority over training certifications, significantly improving labor conditions for seafarers.
India’s Directorate General of Shipping has enhanced the verification process for Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance certificates for vessels docking at its ports. This comes in response to previous incidents where claims were denied due to invalid certificates. Ships over 300 gross tonnage must now ensure valid P&I insurance coverage.
In its 197th meeting, the Inland Waterways Authority of India approved a comprehensive plan to enhance the inland water transport sector, notably for National Waterway-2. Key initiatives include developing terminal infrastructure, navigation aids, and a skill development center, alongside improving vessel operations and establishing a link road to Pandu Terminal in Assam.
ClassNK has enhanced its GHG emissions management tool, ClassNK ZETA, to improve compliance with FuelEU Maritime and EU-ETS regulations. New features include pool optimization for FuelEU Maritime and direct inquiries for EU Allowance purchases. The platform now integrates third-party services, like NAPA’s Fleet Intelligence, supporting efficient emissions management.
Fugro is enhancing its geotechnical survey operations by implementing electronic logbooks across its fleet. This initiative aims to improve data quality and streamline data collection, supporting the company’s digitalisation strategy. Automated logging reduces administrative burdens, allowing crews to focus on safety and operational tasks, ultimately aiding in achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Female seafarers are a small minority in the maritime workforce, but there has been a 45% increase in women pursuing careers at sea in the past decade. Challenges include workplace culture, career advancement, and support systems. Sailors’ Society offers specific support through a female helpline and Peer-to-Peer Support Group to address these issues.
Pilbara Ports is revolutionizing internet access for seafarers by introducing a ship-wide mobile WiFi system at the Port of Port Hedland. This initiative, starting on May 12th, aims to enhance crew members’ communication with their families, promoting mental health and well-being. Ships can benefit from free data top-ups and improved connectivity, fostering a more inclusive maritime community.
The Maryland Transportation Authority recently completed a study on the survivability of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in the event of a ship strike. The study revealed the need for additional protection for the piers to meet safety standards. Following the Key Bridge incident, MDTA has proposed risk reduction strategies and a $160 million pier protection program.
DP World’s Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) saw significant growth in the fiscal year 2024-2025, handling 1,497,228 TEUS, a 13% increase from the previous year. Servicing 762 vessels, the terminal plays a crucial role in advancing India’s global trade network. DP World Mundra also reached its highest monthly volume in March 2025.
