1. Sanctioned Russian icebreakers helped Glasgow shipping company bring gas to Europe
A Glasgow-based shipping company relied on Russian icebreakers that are currently under international sanctions to facilitate the transport of Arctic LNG cargoes into Europe, raising compliance and ethical concerns. The case highlights how energy security pressures continue to create operational grey areas in sanctions enforcement within global gas supply chains.
2. US announces maritime action plan to revitalise shipbuilding
The United States has unveiled a comprehensive Maritime Action Plan aimed at rebuilding domestic shipbuilding capacity, expanding the skilled workforce, and strengthening supply chain resilience. The strategy also emphasizes public-private partnerships and national security considerations as Washington seeks to counter global competition, particularly from Asia.
3. EU and US announce new rounds of sanctions as OFAC updates on Venezuela
The EU and US have introduced additional sanctions targeting Russian and Venezuelan energy flows, including new vessel designations and tighter maritime service restrictions. Updated OFAC guidance clarifies compliance expectations for shipowners, insurers, and financial institutions operating in high-risk jurisdictions.
4. Asia-US container rates steady to softer on low volume despite increased blank sailings
Container spot rates on the Asia–US trade have remained flat to slightly weaker as demand softens following the Lunar New Year period. Carriers continue to deploy blank sailings in an effort to stabilize freight levels, but subdued cargo volumes are limiting upward rate momentum.
5. The ghost ships in the English Channel and the question of what to do about them
An increasing number of so-called “ghost ships” operating with opaque ownership structures and questionable compliance have been observed in the English Channel. Authorities face growing pressure to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to address safety, environmental, and sanctions-related risks.
6. Sinokor now controls one in four compliant VLCCs
South Korea’s Sinokor has significantly expanded its footprint in the compliant VLCC segment, now controlling roughly a quarter of vessels meeting key regulatory standards. The development underscores shifting tanker market dynamics as owners reposition fleets amid sanctions and evolving charter requirements.
https://splash247.com/sinokor-now-controls-one-in-four-compliant-vlccs/
7. APM Terminals buys into DP World’s Jeddah terminal
APM Terminals has acquired a stake in DP World’s Jeddah Islamic Port container terminal, reinforcing its strategic presence in the Red Sea corridor. The transaction strengthens long-term positioning in a region that remains critical to global east-west trade flows.
https://splash247.com/apm-terminals-buys-into-dp-worlds-jeddah-terminal/
8. Crew change travel carries a carbon cost that shipping can no longer ignore
New analysis shows that crew travel associated with seafarer rotations represents a measurable and often overlooked component of shipping’s Scope 3 emissions. Industry stakeholders are being urged to integrate crew travel into decarbonisation strategies and sustainability reporting frameworks.
https://splash247.com/crew-change-travel-carries-a-carbon-cost-that-shipping-can-no-longer-ignore/
9. CMA CGM strengthens India ties with LNG ship order and R&D hub
CMA CGM has deepened its engagement with India through an LNG-powered newbuilding order and the establishment of a research and development hub. The move supports India’s ambitions to expand its shipbuilding capabilities while accelerating the group’s alternative fuel transition strategy.
https://gcaptain.com/cma-cgm-strengthens-india-ties-with-lng-ship-order-and-rd-hub/
10. Oil rallies as US-Iran tensions flare
Oil prices climbed sharply as renewed tensions between the United States and Iran heightened concerns over potential supply disruptions in the Middle East. Market volatility increased amid fears that escalation could impact flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global crude shipments.
https://gcaptain.com/oil-rallies-as-us-iran-tensions-flare/