- IUMI and TAPA warn of escalating cargo theft and freight fraud
Global insurers and security specialists report a sharp rise in cargo theft, with organised crime exploiting supply-chain complexity and weak points in inland transport. They call for tighter data sharing, stronger prevention standards, and coordinated action across shippers, carriers, and insurers.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/06/iumi-and-tapa-warn-of-escalating-cargo-theft-and-freight-fraud/ - Dual-fuel container ship and vehicle carrier fleet reaches 400 ships on the water
The number of dual-fuel container ships and car carriers in operation has surpassed 400, reflecting accelerating investment in transitional fuels. Owners are prioritising flexibility to meet tightening emissions rules while managing fuel availability and cost risks.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/06/dual-fuel-container-ship-and-vehicle-carrier-fleet-reaches-400-ships-on-the-water/ - Seafarer abandonment crisis: thousands left behind in shipping’s worst year on record
Cases of abandoned seafarers surged to record levels, leaving crews unpaid, unsupported, and stranded in ports worldwide. Industry bodies warn that enforcement gaps and weak flag-state action are allowing the problem to persist.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/06/seafarer-abandonment-crisis-thousands-left-behind-in-shippings-worst-year-on-record/ - BIMCO Shipping Number of the Week: 97
BIMCO highlights a key metric illustrating current market dynamics and operational pressures across the global fleet. The figure underscores how regulatory, commercial, and geopolitical factors are reshaping shipping performance.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/06/bimco-shipping-number-of-the-week-97/ - Rio Tinto and Glencore walk away from revived mega-merger talks
The mining giants have ended renewed discussions on a potential merger, citing strategic and valuation differences. The decision removes the prospect of a landmark consolidation that could have reshaped bulk commodity shipping demand.
https://splash247.com/rio-tinto-and-glencore-walk-away-from-revived-mega-merger-talks/ - Explosion knocks out MSC boxship near St Petersburg
An explosion disabled a major container vessel close to St Petersburg, triggering investigations into the cause and raising security concerns in the region. The incident highlights ongoing operational risks for shipping in geopolitically sensitive waters.
https://splash247.com/explosion-knocks-out-msc-boxship-near-st-petersburg/ - Trump Iran tariff order targets India, Turkey and China trade
A new tariff order linked to Iran has implications for trade flows involving India, Turkey, and China. Analysts warn of knock-on effects for energy shipments, freight rates, and compliance burdens for carriers.
https://gcaptain.com/trump-iran-tariff-order-india-turkey-china-trade/ - Panama Canal opens floodgates as Gatun Lake reservoir hits maximum capacity
Exceptional rainfall has pushed Gatun Lake to full capacity, prompting canal authorities to open floodgates. The move eases water management pressures and supports transit reliability after recent draft and slot restrictions.
https://gcaptain.com/panama-canal-opens-floodgates-as-gatun-lake-reservoir-hits-maximum-capacity/ - Logistics challenges boost China’s reverse migration
Rising logistics costs and supply-chain disruption are contributing to reverse migration trends within China. Shifts in manufacturing and distribution patterns are influencing regional freight demand and port activity.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/maritime/logistics-challenges-boost-china-s-reverse-migration - PD Ports plays vital role in UK’s renewable energy capacity
PD Ports is expanding infrastructure and services to support offshore wind and wider renewable projects across the UK. Port investment is positioned as a critical enabler of energy transition logistics and long-term industrial growth.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/environment/pd-ports-plays-vital-role-in-uk-s-renewable-energy-capacity