The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is launching a National Compliance Plan to enhance accountability in the maritime industry. This initiative includes over 4,700 inspections of both foreign and domestic vessels, aiming to improve safety measures and address critical issues like crew fatigue and safety management systems for better occupational health standards.
Vanuatu’s maritime authorities are addressing the shortage of qualified Ni-Vanuatu seafarers by enhancing training programs and creating new career pathways. The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority and Maritime College are appointing a new CEO to drive reforms, ensuring local seafarers meet international standards and secure employment on various vessels.
India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, led by Mukesh Mangal, is prepared to bolster seafarer repatriation from West Asia as needed. With 562 Indian seafarers currently aboard 13 vessels and recent maritime security incidents raising concerns, the Ministry has already facilitated the safe return of over 3,537 seafarers.
In celebration of World Ocean Day, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) calls on its 176 Member States to enhance marine environmental protection. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized the need to transform policy into action, highlighting ongoing efforts against pollution and initiatives targeting marine plastic litter and greenhouse gas emissions from ships.
The UK government plans to introduce stricter penalties for shipowners who intentionally damage subsea telecommunications cables. This move addresses growing security concerns over vital underwater infrastructure amid increased Russian activity. UK Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd emphasized the need to modernize laws dating back 140 years to enhance national security and protect connectivity.
A delegation from Hamburg’s Senate, led by Economic Affairs Senator Melanie Leonhard, recently visited India to strengthen maritime trade relations. Key figures, including Jens Meier and Hendrik Meyn, engaged in discussions on sustainable port infrastructure in Chennai, Mumbai, and New Delhi, emphasizing collaboration amid the evolving EU-India Free Trade Agreement.
During the February 13 meeting in Jakarta, ASEAN and India emphasized maritime cooperation as a priority, focusing on sea safety, environmental protection, and adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific. The Philippines, chairing ASEAN, co-led discussions on the 2026 ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation aimed at enhancing regional collaboration.
The Directorate General of Shipping, led by Additional Director General Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, convened to address the recent detention and abandonment of Indian seafarers. Emphasizing the safety and dignity of mariners, the meeting aimed at improving repatriation processes and ensuring a coordinated response to protect Indian seafarers abroad.
The Global Maritime Forum has joined the Green Ports and Shipping Network, launched to promote low- and zero-carbon marine fuels in India. Introduced at the 3rd Green Hydrogen India Symposium, this initiative unites stakeholders in developing strategies for green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, aiming to enhance India’s maritime energy transition.
India and Sri Lanka held the 13th edition of Navy Staff talks in Colombo, aiming to enhance maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. Co-chaired by Rear Admirals Maddula and Rupasena, discussions focused on reinforcing partnerships and exploring collaborative measures for anti-piracy and drug interdictions. Admiral Tripathi emphasized deeper cooperation and technological advancements.
Lila Global, a ship owner specializing in crude oil and chemical/product tankers, has joined INTERTANKO, enhancing its commitment to safety and compliance. Operating a fleet of eight tankers, the company ensures adherence to rigorous safety standards, while actively participating in industry discussions to maintain high operational standards across its vessels.
The Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority has initiated Operation Nightwatch, enhancing maritime enforcement against “dark” vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone. This initiative, in partnership with Starboard Maritime Intelligence and Vantor, significantly reduces response times to illegal fishing, safeguarding marine ecosystems and national revenue across over two million square kilometers.
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.
In a landmark move, the Indo-Russian strategic partnership advanced with key MoUs signed between India’s Ministry of Ports and the Russian Transport Ministry. This initiative aims to enhance maritime cooperation and train Indian seafarers for Arctic navigation, reflecting a deepening collaboration in maritime security and interests in polar routes.
India is enhancing its maritime capabilities by establishing a nationwide inland ship repair network. This initiative aims to develop inland waterways, improve vessel maintenance, and boost operational efficiency. By reducing reliance on external facilities, India promotes self-sufficiency, creates jobs, and supports sustainable transport, marking a significant step in economic growth.
