Operations

China will implement new rules on electronic documents from 1 September 2026, clarifying legal validity, usage, and compliance requirements—potentially impacting shipping documentation, digital trade processes, and cross-border maritime operations.

The EU has broadened its Iran sanctions regime to address threats to freedom of navigation, enabling new measures against individuals and entities involved in maritime security risks and destabilising activities affecting international shipping.

ABB highlights AI’s growing role in maritime operations, while stressing the continued importance of human expertise to guide how and when data-driven solutions deliver value for shipping customers.

Crew health guidance highlights the benefits of quitting smoking, including improved physical and mental wellbeing and financial savings, offering practical advice to help seafarers successfully stop smoking.

MSC outlines why container fumigation is vital for safety, compliance, and cargo protection, highlighting key benefits and five essential tips shippers should know before transporting goods internationally.

Industry bodies including ICS, BIMCO and OCIMF have issued joint guidance on safely managing vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz, addressing operational risks and security considerations for shipowners and crews.

The European Commission issued new FAQs clarifying EU Russia sanctions for the maritime sector, focusing on targeted vessels and tanker sales, providing updated guidance to industry stakeholders on compliance and enforcement.

An overview of bulk carriers, explaining their structure, types, and historical development, and highlighting their essential role in Japan’s economy and global trade.

A new Loss Prevention bulletin on tanker tank cleanliness verification has been released, alongside an animated video explaining wash water analysis to support safer and more effective tank cleaning practices.

Swedish Club reports an engine room fire on a 12-year-old product tanker, traced to a cracked fuel oil pipe during routine ballast passage, highlighting maintenance risks and fire hazards linked to fuel system failures.

FAQ guide explaining the ECDIS Training Assessment (ETA), covering purpose, requirements, and implications for seafarers and ship operators, helping ensure compliance with navigation training standards and improving safe use of ECDIS systems.

ABB highlights growing adoption of weather routing and voyage optimisation in APAC, driven by fuel efficiency, emissions reduction and digitalisation, while regional challenges include data quality, regulatory differences and varying levels of technological maturity.

NYK Group leads the Nippon Foundation’s MEGURI2040 program, advancing fully autonomous ship technology to address labor shortages and safety challenges in Japan’s coastal shipping sector through cutting-edge maritime innovation.

Hypertension is the second leading cause of PEME failure, accounting for 8% of unfit decisions. UK P&I highlights risks, screening importance, and management to help seafarers maintain fitness for duty.

One year on, this analysis reviews key maritime chokepoints, assessing ongoing disruptions, geopolitical risks, and their impact on global shipping, trade flows, and supply chain resilience, with insights into evolving threats and industry responses.

StormGeo’s 2026 Northwest Pacific typhoon outlook highlights expected storm activity, key high-risk regions, and underlying climate drivers shaping the upcoming season.

Analysis of recurring injuries and fatalities during vehicle deck operations highlights how routine tasks can become hazardous, stressing the need for vigilance, adherence to procedures, and stronger safety practices across maritime operations.

Marine insurers assess the impact of uncrewed vessels as autonomous technology enters commercial use, with Shipowners’ P&I Club highlighting how such ships could reduce risk, improve safety, and reshape future maritime insurance frameworks.

World Maritime University releases a practical handbook guiding maritime organizations on gender mainstreaming, helping them review policies and practices through a gender and diversity lens.

Review of the Global Onboard Training Programme highlights seafarer shortages, training barriers, and limited female participation, while assessing efforts to meet STCW requirements and ensure sustainable officer supply through expanded onboard training initiatives.

Gard warns of a renewed Somali piracy threat, urging vessels transiting the region to apply BMP measures, maintain vigilance, and review security plans amid reduced naval presence and evolving risks in the Western Indian Ocean.

As October approaches, maritime decarbonization debates intensify, with ABB highlighting the growing importance of optimizing ship energy efficiency to drive emissions reductions, says Charlotte Nonnemann, VP Regulatory & Public Affairs, Marine Systems.

NorthStandard outlines updated Mobile Offshore Units Rules for 2026/27, highlighting key regulatory changes, safety expectations, and compliance guidance affecting offshore operations, risk management, and insurance considerations for operators and stakeholders.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen recounts the March 6 rescue of sailing vessel SV Matabele after mast damage and low fuel, highlighting coordination with JRCC Tahiti and the enduring spirit of mutual aid among seafarers.

Neptune’s Bunker Information tab now includes updated VPS data highlighting off-spec VLSFO sulphur issues in the ARA region, offering the latest insights into fuel quality trends affecting marine bunkering operations.

Fuel shortages are raising concerns about maintaining adequate fuel tank levels on car carriers, highlighting operational risks, safety implications, and the need for careful fuel management in current market conditions.

​​​​​​​On June 15, 2024, about 1626 local time, the towing vessel Mackenzie Rose was pushing the loaded deck barge Weeks 281 while transiting the southern branch of the Elizabeth River in Chesapeake, Virginia, when the barge’s raked bow struck the Norfolk and Portsmouth Belt Line Railroad Bridge. The railroad bridge was severely damaged; total damages were $15.8 million. Read more here.

The Commercial Court has ruled that invalid notices of readiness do not start laytime, underscoring strict compliance requirements for shipowners and reinforcing the legal risks of defective NOR submissions.

Shipowners trading in Far East ports are reminded that the 2026 Flighted Spongy Moth Complex (FSMC) season, beginning May/June, is underway, requiring vigilance and compliance with inspection and certification requirements to avoid delays and port restrictions.

Update on the US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), outlining its implementation timeline, recent form revisions as of March 2022, and guidance for accessing the latest documentation.

Explores how partnering with shipping companies in Spain can improve localized logistics, helping businesses boost efficiency, streamline operations, and adapt quickly to regional supply chain demands.

Explores why open communication about worries is vital for seafarers facing isolation, long deployments, and high-pressure conditions, highlighting the impact on mental wellbeing, safety, and crew cohesion, and encouraging a supportive onboard culture.

NYK highlights the versatility of chemical tankers, which transport a wide range of liquid chemicals worldwide, supporting global trade and daily life while reflecting the company’s mission to deliver value across international shipping operations.

Guidance on 2026 Flighted Spongy Moth Complex risks, outlining international regulations and vessel procedures to prevent the invasive pest’s spread into non-native regions and protect vulnerable ecosystems.

ABB highlights how AI-driven automation enhances container terminal operations, enabling safer, more efficient handling of high container volumes while managing complex equipment and environmental challenges in modern port environments.

ABB highlights how improved human–automation collaboration is unlocking the potential of “digital crew members,” enhancing vessel safety, efficiency, and decision-making as maritime operations increasingly integrate advanced onboard technologies.

Safety incidents involving moving traffic on Ro-Ro vessel decks highlight ongoing risks to crew and passengers, exposing persistent vulnerabilities in cargo operations and underscoring the need for stronger safety measures across the maritime industry.

Free weather apps offer broad forecasts, but port operations require precise, nearshore insights, threshold-based alerts, and accountable decision support to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliable planning.

As digitalisation advances, focus grows on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). This article clarifies IMO definitions and terminology, helping stakeholders better understand classifications and requirements for declarations in an evolving regulatory landscape.

ABB highlights how AI is enhancing port operations, improving productivity, safety, and decision-making, urging the maritime sector to fully embrace its potential as digital technologies become increasingly integral to modern port management.

Stella Maris, with The Nautical Institute of Ukraine and Odesa partners, has issued practical safety guidance to help seafarers respond to missile and drone threats, enhancing preparedness in high-risk maritime regions.

OFAC’s FAQ 1249 clarifies that payments for Strait of Hormuz transit to Iran or the IRGC may breach US sanctions, raising compliance risks for shipowners, operators, and insurers.

Guide outlines U.S. port entry requirements, highlighting complex federal and state regulations, inspection procedures, and compliance challenges that often exceed international standards for vessel owners, operators, and crews arriving in the United States.

Escalating conflict involving the U.S., Israel, Iran, and Gulf states has sharply disrupted global shipping, with the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, slashing vessel traffic and heightening legal and operational risks for maritime and logistics sectors.

Trump Administration grants a 60-day limited Jones Act waiver following a Department of War request, aiming to ease energy market volatility during the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, according to a March 2026 announcement.

A new High Seas Treaty establishes the first comprehensive framework to govern and protect international waters, covering nearly half the planet and aiming to safeguard marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.

China’s revised Maritime Code, effective 1 May 2026, marks the most significant overhaul of the country’s maritime law in decades, introducing wide-ranging changes to its legal framework governing shipping and maritime activity.

EU adopts 20th sanctions package against Russia, updating Regulation 833/2014 with expanded restrictive measures affecting maritime trade, compliance, and shipping operations, as outlined in UK P&I Circular 08/26.

Saudi Arabia is strengthening its role as a global logistics hub, launching new shipping services and introducing regulatory relief while reshaping force majeure frameworks to boost maritime capacity, resilience, and operational flexibility.

BDM Law examines ongoing risks and legal concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting its strategic importance and continued impact on maritime operations, insurance, and global trade amid persistent regional tensions.

Lloyd’s List cites a Holland & Knight alert on a proposed 60-day Jones Act waiver tied to Iran-related supply chain disruptions, with potential Federal Maritime Commission involvement highlighted.

U.S. Treasury and Mexican authorities intensify enforcement against cartel-linked economic activity, highlighting rising compliance and supply chain risks for the agro-industry amid expanding sanctions scrutiny.

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission denied four ocean carrier requests to impose surcharges with less than the required 30 days’ notice, reinforcing compliance with Shipping Act rules and existing FMC regulations.

Recent English case law clarifies that commencing security proceedings does not stop time limits under the Hague-Visby Rules, highlighting critical risks for shipowners following The Taikoo Brilliance decision.

West P&I has relocated to larger Hong Kong offices to bolster regional operations, enhancing support for members and strengthening its presence in the China and Vietnam markets.

BCG analysis of 15+ years of opex data reveals how shipping companies can control costs and sustain profitability despite economic uncertainty and geopolitical volatility.

CBP updated guidance extends Jones Act waivers to 90 days following Operation Epic Fury disruptions and introduces a new documentation requirement for initial waiver requests.

Ionic has rolled out Orca AI across 19 tankers and bulkers after trials showed fewer close encounters, wider passing distances and lower fuel use, strengthening bridge awareness and shore-side oversight in congested, low-visibility waters.

The Swedish Club warns escalating Middle East tensions heighten risks to seafarers and maritime operations, urging vigilance as geopolitical instability threatens vessel safety, crew welfare, and regional shipping activities.

MSS case study: A container vessel at Port A triggered an accidental fuel oil spill while de-ballasting to correct a list during cargo operations, highlighting operational risks and preventive lessons for crews and operators.

The Federal Maritime Commission has launched Special Investigation 26-01 to assess whether carrier practices for hazardous cargo, including radioactive materials, unfairly discriminate against U.S. exporters and related service providers.

Analysis of the Hormuz crisis examines whether Iranian and US blockades are lawful, arguing the dispute exposes deeper tensions and vulnerabilities within the international legal order governing maritime navigation and global trade.

Sailors’ Society’s 2025/26 Cadet Report examines how digital life shapes young seafarers’ wellbeing, highlighting connectivity, social media pressure, mental health, bullying, harassment, and trust in safety reporting systems.

Gard warns that soya bean cargoes continue to pose a high claims risk, highlighting ongoing issues with quality disputes, moisture damage, and handling practices that can lead to significant losses for shipowners and insurers.

Gas carriers are increasingly vital to global energy security, transporting LNG, LPG, and emerging gaseous cargoes. As their role expands, so do operational risks, highlighting the need for focused safety awareness and risk management across the sector.

ICS’s 2025/26 Flag State Performance Table updates public indicators on flag compliance, PSC records, treaty ratification, reporting and IMO audits, helping shipowners assess registry performance and identify flags needing closer scrutiny.

UK Defence Club outlines how conflict affects charterparties, covering war risks, piracy, unsafe ports, delay, force majeure, frustration and indemnity, plus a practical pre- and post-fixture checklist for owners and charterers.

Ecuador will bring the Hamburg Rules into force on 1 August 2026, following ratification in 2025, becoming the latest adopter after Peru, marking a further expansion of the UN convention governing carriage of goods by sea.

Iran’s foreign minister says the Strait of Hormuz is open to commercial vessels under coordinated transit during the ceasefire, a key development for Gulf trade, though it remains unclear if shipping volumes will meaningfully recover.

Explains how operators can meet the “covered small passenger boat” exception under the US Limitation of Liability Act, outlining eligibility criteria, regulatory requirements, and practical implications for limiting liability exposure in passenger vessel incidents.

DHS has issued a limited Jones Act waiver amid Iran-related supply disruptions, especially in oil markets, as U.S. forces conduct Operation Epic Fury, raising legal and logistical implications for maritime transport and energy supply chains.

VPS has flagged multiple bunker fuel quality issues in Singapore following recent testing, issuing several alerts and a circular to warn the industry of potential risks affecting vessel operations and fuel reliability.

MSC explains the differences between spot and contract logistics, outlining benefits, flexibility, and cost considerations to help businesses choose the most suitable supply chain strategy.

NorthStandard introduces its ECDIS Training Assessment (ETA), part of the Get SET! Safety & Efficiency Technologies suite, with FAQs outlining its purpose, features, and benefits for improving navigational competence and safety.

Despite a US-Iran ceasefire, the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted. BDM Law examines whether paying IRGC “tolls” to secure vessel passage is possible and outlines the significant legal and sanctions risks involved.

The Swedish Club has released a new guide to help seafarers manage stress while operating in high-risk areas, offering practical support for crews facing prolonged uncertainty, pressure, and challenging working conditions at sea.

The 2012 Cape Town Agreement, adopted by the IMO, introduces the first binding global safety standards for fishing vessels, aiming to improve crew protection and reduce maritime casualties worldwide.

Bangladesh is facing a severe diesel shortage due to the Iran conflict, forcing suppliers to declare force majeure and disrupting port operations nationwide, according to local correspondents.

Examines established and emerging risks in transporting vehicles on PCC, PCTC, Ro‑Ro and Ro‑Pax vessels, highlighting safety challenges linked to vessel design, cargo handling and evolving operational hazards.

Guidance for bridge teams on managing GNSS disruption at sea, outlining risks to navigation, causes of signal interference, and practical measures to maintain situational awareness and safe vessel operations when satellite positioning becomes unreliable.

A nationwide diesel shortage in Bangladesh, linked to the Iran conflict and force majeure on fuel shipments, is disrupting port operations, according to local correspondents Interport.

Passenger ship operators face 2027 compliance deadlines under the amended Maritime Labour Convention, expanding seafarer rights and obligations, while also navigating rising security risks, according to Holland & Knight analysis.

An insight into the challenges of transporting massive wind turbine blades, highlighting key safety risks, logistics considerations, and best practices to improve handling, reduce damage, and ensure safer maritime and port operations.

The Swedish Club highlights safety and operational risks in transporting baled Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF), following recent incidents that underscore hazards associated with this cargo.

A two-week US–Iran ceasefire announced 8 April 2026 hinges on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but transit restrictions remain in place, continuing to impact maritime operations and regional shipping risk.

WFW lawyers outline strategic guidance on the Middle East conflict, combining cross-sector insights to help maritime stakeholders navigate evolving risks, regulatory challenges, and operational complexities.

BDM Law examines hull fouling risks for vessels in the Persian Gulf, noting that fouling typically arises when ships face delays from port congestion or cargo unavailability rather than during normal operations.

SSY’s latest update by Dr Roar Adland analyzes the Middle East Gulf ceasefire, highlighting implications for shipping markets, regional stability, and tanker trade dynamics.

Analysis outlines the legal basis for U.S. seizures of shadow fleet oil tankers and explains what happens to vessels after confiscation, highlighting growing use of maritime enforcement in economic sanctions.

Steamship Mutual explains deviation in marine insurance, outlining when route changes may void cover, acceptable circumstances, legal implications, and practical guidance for shipowners and operators navigating voyage deviations.

ABB examines maritime safety gaps, questioning why ships lack automated support systems common in cars, and explores how technology could assist crews when human decision-making or command chains fail.

Analysis of six years of marine insurance claims highlights common risks linked to exhaust gas scrubbers, including operational failures, maintenance issues, and compliance challenges, offering lessons for safer and more reliable shipboard use.

Gard warns that moth infestations in cargo, particularly agricultural goods, can lead to costly delays, inspections, and vessel off-hire. Proactive prevention and proper cargo handling are key to avoiding disruptions and potential claims.

Disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is hitting energy-dependent economies hardest, particularly across Asia and Africa. This analysis identifies the most exposed regions and sectors, highlighting how supply chain shocks, fuel shortages and rising costs are reshaping global trade.

Peak season puts intense pressure on supply chains, driving delays, costs and operational strain. This guide outlines practical strategies—from demand forecasting to early booking and automation—helping businesses maintain efficiency, meet customer expectations and stay competitive during high-volume periods.

Advanced simulation and lifecycle support are reshaping maritime training. This article explores how MAAP uses K-Sim technology to build future-ready seafarers, enhancing skills development, operational readiness and long-term competence in an increasingly digital and complex shipping environment.

Heavy weather near port creates unique hazards for vessels waiting at anchor or preparing to enter harbour. This article examines anchor dragging, collision exposure and operational challenges, offering practical steps to strengthen preparedness and reduce incidents.

A vessel grounding caused by incorrect or poorly verified charts highlights critical failures in navigation and bridge procedures. This case study explores how small errors escalate, offering practical lessons to improve situational awareness, passage planning and chart management.

The 2026 Jones Act waiver opens U.S. domestic trade to foreign vessels amid energy disruption. This briefing explains the legal framework, scope and limits of the waiver, and its implications for shipping markets, supply chains and regulatory risk.

Global trade tensions continue to drive rapid changes in tariff regimes. This monthly tracker outlines the latest measures, retaliatory actions and policy shifts, helping businesses understand evolving risks and adapt supply chains in an increasingly unpredictable trade environment.