1. Oldendorff and BHP collaborate to attract new talent to the maritime industry
and
BHP
have launched a joint initiative aimed at attracting young professionals to the maritime and bulk commodities sectors. The programme focuses on cadetships, graduate placements and cross-industry exposure to demonstrate long-term career pathways linking mining, logistics and shipping.
2. First IMO ships’ routeing workshop to strengthen navigation safety
The
International Maritime Organization
has held its first dedicated workshop on ships’ routeing systems to enhance navigational safety and traffic management. The event gathered member states and technical experts to review best practices, risk mitigation strategies and the future development of traffic separation schemes in congested sea areas.
3. BIMCO Shipping Number of the Week: 98
highlighted the figure 98 in its latest market insight, linking it to current fleet, demand or trade performance metrics. The association’s weekly data snapshot underscores ongoing volatility in freight markets while offering concise indicators for shipowners and charterers tracking short-term trends.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/17/bimco-shipping-number-of-the-week-98/
4. Revised pension proposal halts planned strike by 400 Bilfinger offshore workers
A revised pension arrangement has led to the suspension of a planned strike involving around 400 offshore workers employed by
Bilfinger
. The updated proposal addressed key concerns raised by labour representatives, preventing potential disruption to offshore energy operations.
5. ZIM sets out terms of $4.2bn Hapag-Lloyd deal, outlines new ZIM carve-out
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services
has detailed the structure of its $4.2bn transaction with
Hapag-Lloyd
, clarifying asset allocation and strategic objectives. The agreement includes the creation of a restructured carve-out entity designed to sharpen operational focus and enhance competitiveness in liner trades.
https://splash247.com/zim-sets-out-terms-of-4-2bn-hapag-lloyd-deal-outlines-new-zim-carve-out/
6. Record year for seaborne grains with freight boost into 2026
Global seaborne grain shipments reached a record high, driven by strong export volumes from major producing regions and sustained demand from import-dependent markets. Freight earnings for bulk carriers have benefited from longer haul distances and resilient agricultural trade flows, supporting a firm outlook into 2026.
https://splash247.com/record-year-for-seaborne-grains-with-freight-boost-into-2026/
7. Madagascar exposes fraudulent flag scam
Authorities in
Madagascar
have uncovered a fraudulent ship registry scheme involving the misuse of its national flag. The case highlights ongoing risks linked to shadow fleets and underscores the importance of tighter oversight of flag state administration.
https://splash247.com/madagascar-exposes-fraudulent-flag-scam/
8. What’s driving the tanker newbuilding bonanza? VLCCs and Suezmaxes lead the charge
Newbuilding orders for crude tankers have surged, with
VLCC
and
Suezmax
vessels dominating recent contracts. Owners are positioning for fleet renewal and regulatory compliance amid expectations of sustained crude trade and tightening environmental standards.
9. Port of Antwerp-Bruges records milestone in reefer segment for 2025
reported a record performance in its refrigerated cargo segment in 2025. Growth in fruit, food and pharmaceutical shipments strengthened its position as a leading European hub for temperature-controlled logistics.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/ports/port-of-antwerp-bruges-records-milestone-in-reefer-segment-for-2025
10. Maritime NGOs warn of ammonia pollution risks
Several maritime environmental organisations have raised concerns about the potential pollution risks associated with ammonia as a marine fuel. They are calling for stricter regulatory frameworks and safety protocols as the industry accelerates research and pilot projects linked to alternative zero-carbon fuels.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/maritime/maritime-ngo-s-warn-of-ammonia-pollution