Government officials and maritime experts from Asian coastal states gathered in Singapore from February 2-6 for the first International Maritime Organization (IMO) workshop on ships’ routing and reporting systems. The workshop aimed to enhance navigational safety and improve the application of these systems in response to increasing maritime traffic in coastal areas.
The European Commission plans to propose measures to strengthen the EU shipping industry by promoting “Made in EU” initiatives. These will encourage public authorities to consider sustainability and product origin in supplier selection. The European Investment Bank may also ease financing for shipowners, enhancing local ship production and competitiveness.
The Research Council has funded a project exploring maritime reactors, reflecting a shift towards innovative energy solutions in shipping. Vard’s study under the NuProShip II initiative shows that small Generation IV nuclear reactors could be integrated into offshore vessels, potentially reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency in maritime operations.
Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) has announced a ₹4,300 crore loan disbursement for maritime financing this fiscal year, positioning itself as India’s first NBFC dedicated to this sector. With plans to expand its portfolio to ₹8,000 crore by 2025-26, SMFCL aims to bolster maritime development significantly.
A consortium of leading companies has launched the Bunkering Services Initiative (BSI) at the ARA ports, starting December 1, 2025. This voluntary initiative aims to enhance transparency in bunkering operations through technology-enabled insights into fuel quality and quantity, addressing industry challenges while fostering cooperation among stakeholders.
On December 13, 2025, Kenya launched the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to enhance maritime safety and environmental protection. This initiative addresses the growing risks of marine pollution due to increased vessel traffic and port operations, establishing a framework for coordinated responses to oil spill emergencies along the Indian Ocean corridor.
The United Nations has launched the first-ever Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) in New York, emphasizing collaboration among governments, industry, and academia. The initiative aims to enhance cleaner mobility and access to essential services, with 83 global commitments supporting clean transport and significant investments in renewable fuels to reduce emissions.
The Albanese Government has launched the Maritime Skills and Training Initiative (MSTI) with a $13.8 million investment to provide sea time access for 20 trainee seafarers. This program aims to tackle skill shortages and enhance workforce capabilities in the maritime sector, supporting the next generation of certified seafarers.
Kamarajar Port is enhancing its coastal power supply facility, encouraging ships to switch to cleaner electricity while docked. Launched in November 2024, the initiative aligns with India’s sustainable port operations goals. This transition reduces emissions and fuel consumption, with a government mandate for compliance by 2035, ensuring widespread adoption.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), under President and CEO Takeshi Hashimoto, is launching “OceanCare” on May 1, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance seafarers’ mental health by providing confidential resources. In partnership with the Mission of Seafarers UK, it introduces a welfare officer for personalized support, prioritizing crew well-being at sea and home.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) is participating in NavHyS, a European initiative promoting liquid hydrogen in maritime applications. Collaborating with ArianeGroup, BV will provide Approvals in Principle for hydrogen storage systems, enhancing vessel safety. The project aims to decarbonize shipping, focusing on innovative below-deck LH₂ tank designs for service operation vessels.
In an effort to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the maritime industry, NeurodiversAtSea, the Seafarers Hospital Society, and The Seafarers’ Charity have launched a groundbreaking project to provide support to neurodivergent seafarers. This initiative aims to address the lack of industry support for neurodivergent employees and provide necessary assessments and adjustments for neurodivergent seafarers.
PT HDF Energy Indonesia, a subsidiary of HDF Energy, is collaborating with the Ministry of Transportation, PT PLN, and PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry to study decarbonizing Indonesia’s maritime sector with green hydrogen. This initiative aims to convert maritime fleets to zero-emission solutions, positioning Indonesia as a leader in green hydrogen innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.
The ATLAS initiative seeks to modernize the fragmented regulatory framework for nuclear applications in the maritime industry, addressing gaps in SOLAS Chapter 8. By developing an international licensing model and collaborating with nuclear regulators, ATLAS aims to ensure safe and secure nuclear technology deployment in maritime settings, enhancing sustainability and efficiency.
The national waterways project, expected to be completed by 2025, aims to attract private sector investments for terminal construction and streamlining processes within India’s waterway network. The government hopes this will increase private entity involvement, boost infrastructure development, and enhance business operations, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for sustainable growth.
