For years, the shipping industry viewed autonomy as a distant prospect. Yarden Gross, CEO of Orca AI, argues this mindset is outdated. Autonomous ships are operational, and AI is enhancing commercial vessels. With crew shortages and emissions targets, the economic necessity for autonomy drives its rapid integration into shipping.
Major shipping organizations, including the International Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO, have condemned recent attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, which resulted in seafarer fatalities. The joint statement emphasized a “callous disregard for the lives of innocent civilian seafarers” following the sinking of two ships this week.
Maritime shipping is essential for global commerce, facilitating efficient goods movement across continents. In Q3 2025, container shipping companies reported a profit surge to $26.8 billion, highlighting their critical role in supply chains. This excerpt reviews five leading firms recognized for scale, customer reach, sustainability, and trade corridor presence.
Jotun’s recent report, based on a survey of 1,000 ship owners, reveals alarming trends in biofouling management. With 41% facing penalties and 38% denied port access due to inadequate strategies, the need for effective antifouling solutions is pressing. Awareness of biofouling’s impact on the shipping industry is growing rapidly.
The shipping industry’s pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions has intensified interest in biofuels, which are compatible with existing engines. However, Rystad Energy’s analysis reveals a significant gap between biofuel production capacity and demand, raising concerns over supply limitations. The upcoming Rystad Talks Energy webinar will explore solutions for maritime leaders.
The shipping industry faces mounting pressure to combat invasive species through hull biofouling. Abigail Robinson from ECOsubsea champions closed-loop hull cleaning as essential for compliance and efficiency. Despite awareness of biofouling’s risks, inadequate regulation persists. Norway’s proposal for mandatory management highlights the need for a global framework to safeguard marine ecosystems.
In today’s shipping industry, operational resilience relies heavily on robust digital infrastructure. Transitioning to cloud-based solutions enhances fleet management, integrating safety, maintenance, and procurement into unified platforms. BASSnet Web 3.0 exemplifies this evolution, modernizing ship management with advanced interfaces, while AI optimizes maintenance and procurement, boosting efficiency and safety.
New international maritime regulations are set to transform the shipping industry, according to Lloyd’s Register. Effective May 1, 2025, these changes focus on environmental protection, safety, and seafarer welfare. Key updates include the Hong Kong Convention on Ship Recycling and stricter greenhouse gas emissions data requirements under MARPOL Annex VI.
The FuelEU Maritime regulation could unexpectedly benefit the shipping industry financially, potentially generating a net gain of around USD$279 million. While an initial compliance gap of 0.8 million metric tons of CO₂e exists, using biofuels to address this could lead to significant revenue opportunities, particularly if operators implement surcharges.
California’s coastline is vital for whale habitats, prompting the shipping industry to implement protective measures. Collaborating with NOAA, major ocean carriers are reducing speeds to 10 knots in designated zones to prevent ship strikes on endangered whales. This initiative, “Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies,” also aims to reduce pollution.
Carbon Ridge has received Design Basis Approval (DBA) from DNV for its Onboard Carbon Capture System (OCCS), confirming compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This milestone facilitates future type approval and deployment, promising over 90% CO₂ emission reduction and positioning the OCCS as a key solution for global maritime emissions.
Three prominent shipping figures—Fredriksen, Ofer, and Wilhelmsen—are taking Edda Wind private to overcome growth barriers posed by its current ownership structure. They plan to acquire full control via Electric AS, offering a cash buyout at a 33% premium, valuing Edda Wind at $287.5 million, following strong financial results.
Tobias Backer, executive director of Pelagic Capital, addresses the cash requirements in the shipping industry amidst geopolitical challenges. With conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, regulatory changes for green initiatives, and US protectionism affecting trade relationships, traditional banks are cautious in lending. Alternative credit institutions like MareVia Credit Fund aim to fill the capital gap for shipowners.
India, along with 62 other nations, voted in favor of a global carbon tax for the shipping industry by the International Maritime Organization. This decision, made in London, aims to reduce emissions and promote cleaner technologies. However, criticism has arisen for not addressing climate finance needs of developing countries.
The BIMCO Documentary Committee has approved revisions to its War Risk Clauses to address evolving geopolitical challenges in the shipping industry. Updated versions include the VOYWAR 2025 and CONWARTIME 2025 clauses. Chairperson Nicholas Fell stressed the importance of reflecting conflicts accurately. The committee also discussed war risk insurance aspects.
