1. Ending blame, fixing systems – Kuba Szymanski
Kuba Szymanski argues that the maritime industry must move away from a culture of blame and instead focus on fixing systemic weaknesses. He stresses that sustainable safety improvements require leadership, transparency and structural change rather than individual fault-finding.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/featured/ending-blame-fixing-systems-kuba-szymanski
2. Scorpio Tankers sheds 11-year-old LR2
Scorpio Tankers has sold an 11-year-old LR2 tanker as part of its ongoing fleet renewal strategy. The move reflects continued efforts by owners to modernise fleets amid tightening environmental and regulatory requirements.
https://splash247.com/scorpio-tankers-sheds-11-year-old-lr2/
3. Inchcape Shipping Services expands presence in Indonesia
Inchcape Shipping Services has opened new offices in Merak and Dumai, strengthening its footprint in Indonesia. The expansion supports growing demand for port agency and marine services in the region.
4. European school competition launched to mark 60th anniversary of European Shipowners
A Europe-wide school competition has been launched to celebrate the 60th anniversary of European Shipowners. The initiative aims to raise awareness of shipping and its role in Europe’s economy among younger generations.
5. Clarksons acquires Zuma Labs to transform FFA market technology
Clarksons has acquired Zuma Labs in a move aimed at enhancing technology and analytics in the FFA market. The acquisition strengthens Clarksons’ digital capabilities in freight derivatives trading.
6. Korean-developed wing sail mounted on an HMM tanker
A Korean-developed wing sail has been installed on an HMM tanker as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The project highlights growing interest in wind-assisted propulsion technologies.
https://splash247.com/korean-developed-wing-sail-mounted-on-an-hmm-tanker/
7. Himalaya Shipping seals fresh index-linked deal
Himalaya Shipping has secured a new index-linked charter deal, reinforcing its exposure to spot market movements. The agreement reflects confidence in the dry bulk market outlook.
https://splash247.com/himalaya-shipping-seals-fresh-index-linked-deal-2/
8. China-flagged supertankers abort Venezuela run as US oil embargo tightens
Several China-flagged VLCCs have reportedly abandoned voyages to Venezuela as US sanctions enforcement intensifies. The development further complicates crude oil trade flows linked to Venezuela.
https://gcaptain.com/china-flagged-supertankers-abort-venezuela-run-as-u-s-oil-embargo-tightens/
9. January enforcement of new safety and green regulations
A range of new safety and environmental regulations has come into force in January, affecting shipowners and operators worldwide. Compliance will require adjustments in operations, reporting and technical standards.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/maritime/january-enforcement-of-new-safety-and-green-regulations
10. Global Shipping Outlook 2026: rates to fall but geopolitics and regulation cloud outlook
A new outlook report forecasts lower shipping rates in 2026 while warning that geopolitical tensions and regulatory pressure could disrupt markets. Uncertainty remains a key theme across shipping sectors.