In 2025, seafarer abandonment surged to 6,223 cases across 410 ships, a 31% increase from the previous year, as per the ITF. Indian seafarers were hit hardest, with 1,125 cases. The ITF demands stricter regulations on ship ownership and calls for unified action to tackle this ongoing crisis.
Ports and terminals are witnessing a rising demand for biofuels as the global energy landscape shifts towards lower-carbon options. A recent report forecasts the biofuels market to grow from $184.21 billion in 2025 to $326.46 billion by 2035, highlighting the sector’s critical role in sustainable transportation and climate change mitigation.
On December 9, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced key advancements in India’s maritime sector. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the focus is on enhancing infrastructure, digital innovation, and sustainable shipping practices. This strategic approach aims to modernize the industry, improve efficiency, and support global climate change efforts.
The UAE is solidifying its maritime influence through initiatives within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), securing a seat on the IMO Council for five consecutive terms. This achievement reflects global trust in its leadership, enhancing its role as a maritime hub and promoting sustainable development and cooperation among nations.
Jersey is pivotal in an international initiative assessing the S-100 data framework for maritime navigation. Spearheaded by the UK Hydrographic Office and SHOM, this project leverages high-quality bathymetric data from Ports of Jersey. The S-100 standards promise enhanced navigation safety, optimized voyages, and improved port efficiency for global trade.
India is enhancing its global maritime standing by promoting sustainable shipping practices, as highlighted by its recent re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category B. With 154 votes, this achievement reflects international trust in India’s leadership and commitment to a secure, environmentally friendly maritime future.
South Korean shipbuilding leader HD Hyundai has marked a historic achievement by delivering its 5,000th vessel, a testament to its 50-year journey since the inaugural 260,000-ton supertanker Atlantic Baron in 1974. The latest delivery, the Philippine patrol vessel Diego Silang, underscores this remarkable milestone in the industry.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has revised its global oil and gas demand outlook, projecting growth until 2050 despite earlier expectations for a transition to cleaner fuels. The report warns that current policies may lead to oil demand reaching 113 million barrels per day, undermining climate goals to limit temperature rise.
A global alliance is driving the decarbonization and digitization of the shipping industry. Lloyd’s Register, COSCO Shipping Group, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Southampton have launched the International Innovation Center for Future Maritime Technologies. This center will develop intelligent ships and emission-free navigation systems through collaborative research.
Lloyd’s Register has teamed up with COSCO Shipping Group, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Southampton to launch the International Maritime Future Technologies Innovation Centre. This virtual platform aims to advance zero-carbon maritime technologies and intelligent ship systems, facilitating global collaboration to convert research into scalable, practical solutions for the industry.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will host India Maritime Week 2025 from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai. Under the theme “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” the event aims to position India as a global maritime hub, featuring over 100,000 delegates and significant international participation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the India Maritime Week 2025 on October 27 in Mumbai. This five-day event, themed “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” aims to position India as a global maritime hub. Over 100,000 delegates from more than 85 countries are expected, highlighting international interest in India’s maritime sector.
Next week, the UN’s International Maritime Organization will make a historic move by adopting a global carbon pricing framework for the shipping industry. This regulation aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, introducing mandatory limits and encouraging emissions reductions through economic measures. The framework is poised to revolutionize climate efforts in maritime activities.
Heads of seven shipping associations, including Danish Shipping, are urging the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to adopt its Net-Zero Framework (NZF) in October. They warn that failing to do so could complicate the green transition and create inconsistent regional climate regulations, undermining global efforts toward climate-neutral shipping by 2050.
ClassNK has unveiled new guidelines to enhance container shipping efficiency and safety. Key documents include guidelines on optimizing container stowage, utilizing weather forecasts, and anti-rolling devices. These resources aim to improve cargo safety, reduce rolling, and incorporate advanced technologies, reinforcing ClassNK’s commitment to safe maritime practices.
