Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Japan’s second-largest shipping company, is exploring partnerships with Indian firms to locally manufacture tankers. This initiative supports India’s efforts to enhance domestic maritime manufacturing. The Indian government is modernizing maritime laws and investing heavily in shipbuilding to strengthen self-sufficiency in the sector by 2047.
Egypt’s Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) has teamed up with Japanese companies to advance green shipping initiatives. This partnership, formalized at the Egyptian-Japanese Investment Forum in Tokyo on August 19, 2025, aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable maritime practices through innovative technologies, enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
On August 13, 2025, a cargo ship collided with a yacht near Kyushu Island, Japan, leading to the arrest of Captain Yuki Mochizuki. A search revealed the body of Dr. Makoto Yamamoto, who suffered cardiac arrest. The incident highlights urgent maritime safety needs amid challenging navigation conditions.
As the oil rig and wind farm industries increasingly shift to Asia, the Philippines and Japan are preparing for a surge in demand for dynamic positioning (DP) professionals. On July 29, 2025, a new Dynamic Positioning Training Center was inaugurated in Mariveles, Bataan, to address this critical need.
Interpol has officially canceled Japan’s extradition request for Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd. This decision marks a significant turning point in the ongoing controversy surrounding Watson’s activism against whaling. With the red notice withdrawn, he can continue his efforts in marine conservation without the threat of arrest looming over him.
The Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port on July 7 for its Global Ocean Voyage Training. This visit highlights the strengthening partnership between the Indian Coast Guard and JCG, featuring bilateral meetings, cultural exchanges, and a joint sea exercise named ‘Jaa Mata’ on July 12.
The “Development of Integrated Simulation Platform for Sustainable and Competitive Maritime Industry” project, backed by Japan’s K Program, aims to enhance ship design and construction through digital technology. With a budget of $82 million, this collaboration involves industry leaders and academic institutions, positioning Japan as a maritime technology leader.
On July 7, 2025, the Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port, symbolizing enhanced maritime ties between India and Japan. This visit includes bilateral meetings, joint training, and a key sea exercise called Jaa Mata, reinforcing cooperation and commitment to regional maritime security.
Cydome, a cybersecurity firm specializing in maritime and critical infrastructure, has partnered with MarineNet Co. to integrate its ClassNK-endorsed solutions into MarineNet’s MN-Station. This collaboration enhances cybersecurity for Japanese shipping operations amidst rising threats, leveraging AI algorithms and NIST standards to provide comprehensive protection for IT and communication assets.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal met Japan’s Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi in Oslo to strengthen maritime cooperation. They discussed shipbuilding, port digitalization, green initiatives, and transforming Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep into Smart Islands. Sonowal emphasized India’s eagerness for joint ventures and proposed training programs for Indian seafarers to support Japan’s maritime needs.
Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the NYK Group, has launched BioxiGuard, Japan’s first antioxidant for marine biodiesel fuel. Available from August 10, this innovation enhances oxidative stability, reducing degradation by 50%. This development supports the maritime industry’s shift toward sustainable biofuels, improving efficiency and safety in operations.
On May 13, Japan launched the first methanol-fueled bulk carrier, the Green Future. Owned by Kambara Kisen and constructed by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, it features a deadweight tonnage of approximately 65,700. This vessel significantly reduces emissions, showcasing a pivotal shift in the shipping industry’s approach to sustainability.
Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan welcomed Japan Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Seguchi Yoshio at the PCG National Headquarters in Manila. Their meeting focused on enhancing maritime cooperation, showcasing techniques from the JCG’s Mobile Cooperation Team, and reinforcing commitments to safety and security in the region through shared knowledge.
On April 29, Shinnihonkai Ferry Co. and JRTT launched the first of two large car ferries, the Keyaki. Weighing 14,300 gross tons and measuring 199 meters, it accommodates 286 passengers and transports 150 trucks. Built by Mitsubishi, it features energy-saving designs and aims to enhance Japan’s sea transport efficiency.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding unveiled Japan’s first tugboat with a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. Featuring high-power output and high-pressure hydrogen gas storage, the vessel aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 60%. With the ability to switch to traditional marine fuels in case of hydrogen system failure, the tugboat represents a significant step towards environmental sustainability in maritime transportation.
