The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reports a 50% rise in piracy and armed robberies against ships in the first half of 2025, with 90 incidents recorded, particularly alarming in the Singapore Strait. This vital shipping route saw a surge from 15 incidents last year, raising serious safety concerns for crew members.
In early 2025, the British Ministry of Transport reported a 5% increase in freight volumes at major ports. Notably, internal shipments surged by 7% to 72.8 million tons, while liquid mass goods jumped 6%. However, dry bulk cargoes declined by 4% due to significant reductions at Port Talbot.
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the maritime sector, as revealed in Marlink’s recent SOC report. In the latter half of 2024, nearly 2,000 vessels experienced 9 billion security events. The rise of generative AI tools has amplified malware creation and phishing efforts, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in the industry.
Piracy is a growing concern for global shipping, with 45 cases reported in the first quarter of this year, a 35% increase from 2024. The Singapore Straits saw a surge in attacks, with 37 vessels boarded and crew members taken hostage. IMB Director Michael Howlett emphasized the need to protect seafarers and shipping routes.
In March 2025, DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform reported 25 new orders for alternative-fueled vessels. Methanol was the top choice with 12 orders, followed by LNG and ammonia. Despite a 13% decrease in orders compared to 2024, optimism remains high for the future of alternative fuels in the maritime industry.
International shipping lines are actively recruiting officers and crew members, with over 300,000 seafarers needed globally in the next five years. Major companies emphasize the demand for qualified candidates, urging potential recruits to prepare adequately to meet international standards and seize these promising job opportunities in the maritime industry.
Global marine fuel sales saw a significant increase in 2024 due to Yemen’s Houthis attacks, leading to rerouted vessels around southern Africa. Singapore and Fujairah experienced record-high volumes, while Rotterdam saw a 12% rise in sales. Diversions to longer routes boosted fuel demand, with hopes of a return to the Red Sea route following a Gaza ceasefire.
