InterManager Daily News – 16.03.2026
1. Hapag-Lloyd container ship struck near UAE’s Jebel Ali port
A container ship operated by Hapag-Lloyd was struck near the entrance to Jebel Ali port in the United Arab Emirates, raising concerns about maritime security in the Gulf region. Authorities reported that the vessel sustained damage but remained afloat and there were no immediate reports of casualties, while investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident.
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2. War risk coverage exit credit negative for exposed U.S. marine insurers
Credit analysts warn that the withdrawal of war-risk coverage in parts of the Middle East could have negative implications for U.S. marine insurers with exposure to shipping in high-risk regions. The escalation of geopolitical tensions has increased insurance costs and uncertainty, potentially affecting underwriting results and the financial stability of companies heavily involved in maritime coverage.
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3. BIMCO Shipping Number of the Week: 99
BIMCO highlights the figure “99” as its shipping number of the week, referring to the percentage of global trade that moves by sea in terms of volume. The statistic underlines the crucial role maritime transport plays in global supply chains and the importance of maintaining safe, efficient and resilient shipping routes worldwide.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/03/16/bimco-shipping-number-of-the-week-99/
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4. BIFA meets European Commission to discuss Windsor Framework and member experience
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) met with officials from the European Commission to discuss the practical effects of the Windsor Framework on freight and logistics operations. Industry representatives shared feedback from members about customs procedures and cross-border trade challenges affecting shipments between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the European Union.
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5. Swedish court detains captain of tanker bound for Russia
A Swedish court has ordered the detention of a tanker captain linked to a vessel suspected of violating sanctions related to Russian oil trade. Authorities are investigating the ship’s activities and documentation, while the case highlights growing scrutiny of vessels operating in the so-called shadow fleet transporting Russian energy exports.
https://splash247.com/swedish-court-detains-captain-of-tanker-bound-for-russia/
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6. Norway’s Westfal-Larsen offloads MR duo to MSEA Tankers
Norwegian shipping company Westfal-Larsen has sold two medium-range product tankers to MSEA Tankers as part of a fleet optimisation strategy. The transaction reflects ongoing restructuring in the tanker market as owners adjust their fleets in response to shifting demand and market conditions.
https://splash247.com/norways-westfal-larsen-offloads-mr-duo-to-msea-tankers/
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7. Trump demands other countries help secure vital Strait of Hormuz
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called on allied nations to contribute more actively to protecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport. His remarks come amid rising tensions in the region and renewed concerns about the safety of commercial vessels transiting the strategic waterway.
https://gcaptain.com/trump-demands-other-countries-help-secure-vital-strait-of-hormuz/
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8. Kerala govt to acquire 230 acres of land for Vizhinjam port-related development
The government of Kerala plans to acquire around 230 acres of land to support infrastructure and logistics development linked to the Vizhinjam deep-sea port project. Authorities say the expansion will help build supporting facilities, improve connectivity and strengthen the port’s role as a major transshipment hub in India.
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9. HD Hyundai to go solo on $4 billion greenfield shipyard in Tamil Nadu
South Korea’s HD Hyundai plans to independently develop a $4 billion greenfield shipyard project in India’s Tamil Nadu state. The investment aims to expand global shipbuilding capacity and strengthen India’s ambitions to become a major maritime manufacturing and shipbuilding hub.
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10. Some oil loading operations suspended after fire in UAE’s Fujairah
Oil loading operations at the UAE’s Fujairah port were partially suspended following a fire at a fuel storage facility, according to industry sources. The incident prompted safety checks and temporary disruption to some cargo operations at one of the world’s key oil storage and bunkering hubs.