Graduating cadets from the Maritime Academy of Nigeria were urged to explore the blue economy’s vast potential for national development. Maritime experts emphasized the importance of passion and commitment in their careers, highlighting Nigeria’s rich coastal resources and strategic shipping routes as keys to boosting trade, job creation, and economic growth.
Despite the rise of alternative fuels in maritime discussions, diesel remains a crucial player. Innovations in cleaner diesel options and enhanced engine efficiency highlight its adaptability. The industry’s path to sustainability suggests a balanced approach, indicating that diesel will continue to play a significant role alongside emerging fuel technologies.
India’s maritime sector is set for a transformative leap, with an anticipated ₹8 trillion investment and the creation of 1.5 crore jobs by 2047, as highlighted by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri during India Maritime Week 2025. This robust industry is crucial for boosting trade and achieving the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the rapid evolution of India’s maritime sector during the Maritime Leaders Conclave at India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. He praised the efficiency of Indian ports, highlighted the modernization of shipping laws, and noted significant advancements in capacity, turnaround times, and cruise tourism, driving economic growth.
Abu Dhabi is set to invest $2 billion in Maharashtra’s ports and shipbuilding sector, marking a historic partnership. The Memorandum of Understanding, announced by Minister Nitesh Rane, focuses on shipbuilding, maritime transport, and port infrastructure. This collaboration aims to enhance Maharashtra’s maritime capabilities and attract further investments, supporting sustainable economic growth.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s strong industrial base and the ‘Make in India’ initiative, emphasizing a $8 billion investment to revitalize shipbuilding and maritime sectors. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal noted a pivotal shift towards zero-carbon vessels, positioning India to lead in the global transition to green shipping.
This week in London, maritime nations convened to discuss the Net-Zero Framework, aiming to revolutionize shipping’s climate stance. For the first time, a global fee on ship emissions is proposed. While supported by many, it faces opposition from major economies, highlighting the urgency for effective climate policies in maritime sectors.
Sumitomo is set to showcase ammonia bunkering in Singapore by 2027, collaborating with the Maritime and Port Authority to establish safety protocols and operational guidelines. This initiative, part of a broader push for sustainable maritime practices, highlights Singapore’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions through innovative fuel alternatives.
In September 2025, only 14 alternative-fuelled vessel orders were reported, a significant decline from previous years. LNG remained the dominant choice, particularly in the container sector. The market slowdown, marked by zero new orders in August, reflects rising costs and regulatory uncertainties, especially concerning the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework.
In a significant step to boost India’s maritime economy, the Union Cabinet approved a ₹69,725 crore reform package to modernize the shipbuilding industry. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the initiative’s goal: positioning India as a global hub for shipbuilding, thereby generating jobs and investment opportunities.
A recent study by Thetius and Marcura highlights the maritime industry’s struggle with AI adoption, revealing that while 82% of professionals are optimistic, 37% report project failures. Key findings show that 97% believe AI can reduce inefficiencies, yet concerns about overreliance persist, emphasizing the need for human oversight in decision-making.
During the Monsoon Session, India’s Parliament passed five landmark maritime legislations, the first major reform in over a century. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted that these laws, including the Bills of Lading and Merchant Shipping Bill, will modernize the maritime framework, boost the Blue Economy, and enhance global trade standards.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s maritime sector. At a Nigerian Chamber of Shipping meeting, he outlined plans to replicate the Lekki Deep Seaport model nationwide, focusing on public-private partnerships to enhance trade, industrial growth, and job creation.
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, has partnered with Anglo-Eastern to enhance Hadley Shipping Group’s fleet with the NexusWave connectivity solution. This upgrade signifies a leap towards a unified, multi-orbit system, improving performance, cybersecurity, and scalability, while ensuring reliable internet access for seafarers and enhancing operational efficiency and crew wellbeing.
As battery technology advances, the maritime industry is embracing hybrid and electric solutions. Fleetzero and Glosten are collaborating to design the world’s longest-range hybrid electric vessel. Retrofitting a Lightering Support Vessel, it will operate primarily on battery power, marking a significant milestone for cleaner maritime operations. Construction begins in mid-2026.
