Newfoundland and Labrador’s cruise ship industry is booming, with over 100,000 passengers visiting last year. The season, running from March to October, is the longest in history. New ports like Trinity and Bonavista are now certified, expanding opportunities for rural tourism and highlighting the region’s unique culture and landscapes.
The Indian Ports Association (IPA) is inviting experienced professionals to join a national panel of experts to support major ports and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. An Expression of Interest (EoI) seeks qualified candidates under 70, with relevant expertise, for empanelment at its Centre of Excellence.
This week, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) ordered eight 13,400 TEU container ships, highlighting the aging container fleet. The average age of the top 10 shipping lines is 13 years. While HMM’s fleet averages nine years, older vessels dominate companies like MSC and Maersk, raising concerns about future competitiveness.
India’s maritime sector has seen remarkable growth in the last decade, particularly in ports, coastal shipping, and inland waterways. This aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030, enhancing infrastructure and economic development. The surge in cargo capacities and efficient transport highlights India’s strategic focus on maritime trade, boosting global competitiveness.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has designated Deendayal, VO Chidambaranar, and Paradip Ports as Green Hydrogen Hubs under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This milestone aims to position India as a leader in green hydrogen production, driving investments and fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem while targeting net-zero emissions by 2070.
The ports of Antwerp, Zeebrugge, and Ghent are experiencing significant delays due to a work slowdown by Belgian sea pilots protesting proposed pension reforms. With pilots only available from 10 AM to 5 PM, around 70 ships are currently waiting for services, severely impacting shipping operations across the region.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a security alert highlighting the urgent need for improved training for land-based firefighters tackling vessel fires. Investigations revealed inadequate knowledge of ship layouts and fire protection systems hampers effectiveness. Enhanced training plans and adherence to National Fire Protection Association guidelines are recommended to ensure safety and preparedness.
The Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) is enhancing the State’s Blue Economy and maritime development. Principal Secretary Usha Padhee emphasized integrated port-led growth, sustainable shipping, and skills training. The OMB aims to modernize infrastructure, promote marine tourism, and attract investments, positioning Odisha as a key maritime hub in Eastern India.
PortXchange has called on the global port and shipping community to prioritize immediate decarbonization efforts instead of waiting for perfect emissions data. Managing Director Sjoerd de Jager emphasized that while some ports focus on reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, many neglect significant Scope 3 emissions, risking credibility.
PortXchange urges the global port and shipping community to act now on decarbonization, emphasizing that sufficient emissions data already exists. Managing Director Sjoerd de Jager criticizes greenwashing tactics, advocating for genuine change. With increasing regulatory pressure, he calls for immediate action to address all emissions, including Scope 3, to drive meaningful progress.
The Indian government has proposed a regulation requiring shipping companies to deploy at least one tug or towing vessel for emergency response at ports handling over 10 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. This initiative aims to enhance maritime safety following recent disasters, underscoring the need for improved emergency preparedness.
At the fourth National Sagarmala Apex Committee meeting in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh Minister BC Janardhan Reddy emphasized the state’s commitment to maritime growth. He outlined plans to develop an Indian Maritime Center, enhance GDP, and establish a harbor in Bapatla, seeking central support for these initiatives to strengthen India’s maritime prowess.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in India aims to boost the maritime sector with projects worth ₹2 trillion. By 2025, 150 projects will be completed to make India a top 5 shipbuilding nation by 2047. Green initiatives, infrastructure development, and innovation programs are key priorities to enhance sustainability and efficiency in the industry.
India’s Shipping Ministry aims to complete 150 projects by September 2025, focusing on shipbuilding, green shipping, and digital solutions for maritime infrastructure to unlock the Blue Economy’s potential. Minister Sonowal reviewed ongoing projects worth USD 2 trillion, setting targets to consult experts and achieve goals outlined in the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
In New Delhi, Dr. Malini Shankar urged the fusion of India’s rich maritime heritage with contemporary technology to bolster security and growth. Highlighting the significance of ancient trade routes, she advocated for blending traditional shipbuilding with innovations like data analytics, emphasizing initiatives such as the Stitched Ship Project to realize India’s maritime potential.
