Sascha Meijer, assistant general secretary of Nautilus International, highlighted the urgent need for women’s rights in the maritime industry during a networking event on March 9. She addressed barriers women face, such as career stagnation and harassment, urging collective action to foster genuine improvements beyond just celebrating International Women’s Day.
From February 10-12, the Anglo-Eastern Univan Group hosted a crew conference in Manila, gathering around 600 Filipino officers and global leaders. Centered on the theme ‘Delivering Excellence,’ CEO Bjorn Hojgaard emphasized the importance of preparing people alongside ships, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to safety and high standards in maritime operations.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the significance of skill development for India’s maritime sector at a Mumbai event. He awarded certificates to students completing courses and announced a partnership between Vadhvan Port Project Ltd and the Maharashtra government to offer free training, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a future-ready India.
The “Delivering on Seafarers’ Rights 2025 Progress Report” highlights how clearly defined responsibilities impact welfare outcomes in the maritime industry. Analyzing data from 710 companies and over 13,000 vessels, it underscores the connection between seafarer welfare, safety, and operational resilience, advocating for collective industry action to address ongoing challenges.
On August 18, 2025, the Government enacted the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, modernizing maritime governance to meet international standards. Replacing the 1958 Act, it establishes a National Shipping Board and mandates vessel registration, focusing on seafarer rights, safety compliance, and environmental protections, enhancing India’s position as a maritime trade hub.
The Bahamas Maritime Authority’s investigation report details a tragic incident involving a crew member who fell onto a lashing platform between lifeboats while the vessel was docked. Despite immediate medical assistance, he succumbed to severe injuries. The report highlights lapses in safety protocols, particularly the lack of fall protection gear during drills.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reported on the July 2022 incident involving the bulk carrier Portland Bay, which nearly ran aground off Sydney. The vessel lost engine power while carrying heavy fuel oil, raising significant environmental concerns. Coordination issues and communication failures hampered the emergency response efforts.
The 83rd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) convened in London to address climate change in international shipping. With a focus on the IMO Net-Zero Framework, the committee approved measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships. Additional topics included plastic garbage, emission control areas, and ballast water management.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission in New Zealand released a report on the grounding of the passenger vessel Fiordland Navigator, attributing it to a fatigued master who fell asleep at the helm. The incident occurred on January 24, 2024, resulting in minor injuries and moderate damage. Recommendations were made to improve safety measures and oversight.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the significance of India’s maritime sector and ports in driving the country’s progress and prosperity. Despite neglect in the past, significant milestones have been achieved in the last decade. The government is committed to further strengthening the maritime ecosystem through initiatives like doubling cargo handling capacity, promoting coastal shipping, and developing inland waterways.
According to a report, the Solong departed from Grangemouth in Scotland carrying various products, including some designated as dangerous, en route to Rotterdam. The collision with the Stena Immaculate occurred the next day, with the Solong traveling at a speed of 16 knots. Both vessels lacked a dedicated lookout on the bridge, contributing to the incident.
M1 Limited, Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), and SSI Solutions have joined forces to advance 5G technology in Vietnam Maritime Corporation’s operations. This partnership aims to revolutionize maritime efficiency by introducing 5G-powered solutions. VNPT recognizes the expertise of SSI and M1, anticipating significant benefits and revenue from this collaboration.
The ITF and MARINA have signed an MoU to enhance mental health training for Filipino seafarers. This partnership will improve knowledge and skills in mental health and wellbeing for maritime faculties. Collaborative research projects and initiatives will focus on occupational health and safety within the Philippine maritime sector.
The Director General of Shipping in India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sailors‘ Society to improve welfare services for the maritime sector. This collaboration will provide 24/7 support services for seafarers and cadets, enhancing their well-being and safety standards. The partnership aims to benefit the Indian maritime industry by strengthening welfare systems.
Two agreements were signed at the Singapore Norway Innovation Conference (SNIC) to advance sustainable maritime solutions. The first agreement aims to develop a fully electric high-speed harbor craft for Singapore’s maritime landscape. The second agreement focuses on marine electrification in Asia. Both agreements support Singapore’s efforts to decarbonize its maritime industry.
