The Caspian Pipeline Consortium has halted oil exports from its Black Sea terminal due to severe weather and full reservoirs. This disruption follows a Ukrainian drone attack that limited loading operations, causing Kazakhstan’s oil production to decline. December exports are expected to be the lowest in 14 months, averaging 1.082 million barrels daily.
Lukoil has declared force majeure at its West Qurna-2 oil field in Iraq, a direct impact of U.S. sanctions on Russian oil firms. This development complicates Lukoil’s international operations amid rising geopolitical tensions. If unresolved in six months, production may cease, further straining the company’s financial situation.
The Mormugao Port Authority has suspended operations amid a developing cyclonic system off Goa’s coast. The Indian Meteorological Department warned of adverse weather, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. Strict monsoon protocols are in place, prohibiting small crafts and enforcing enhanced safety measures to mitigate risks during this hazardous season.
The Ministry of Industries in Bangladesh is cracking down on a shipbreaking company in Chattogram after a deadly incident during tank cutting on a retired tanker. The explosion and fire on September 7 left 12 workers injured and one dead. The company, SM Corporation, faces suspension and fines for safety violations.
The Panama Canal Authority worked to clean up an oil spill in one of the locks near Balboa after the MSC Kataya R. experienced a spill during transit to Ecuador. The vessel, held in the lock chamber during cleanup, was later moved to Panama Anchorage. With plans to increase daily transits and draft levels, the authority aims to ease transit for vessels as water levels improve.
Royal Caribbean International is suspending stops at its private destination in Haiti due to recent violence. The cruise line’s Labadee port, transformed into an amusement park, is now off-limits. Passengers will have alternative stops or days at sea. Royal Caribbean has faced criticism for continuing calls to Haiti in the past.
