1.Lloyd’s Register targets ageing feeder fleet with retrofit and renewal push
Lloyd’s Register has launched a new campaign to help owners of ageing feeder vessels decide between retrofitting existing ships and investing in newbuildings. The initiative combines classification, advisory and digital services to improve operational performance while preparing fleets for future fuel and emissions requirements.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/07/16/lloyds-register-targets-ageing-feeder-fleet-with-retrofit-and-renewal-push/
.2.IMO Council reaffirms commitment to protecting vital shipping lanes
The IMO Council has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding global shipping lanes following recent attacks on merchant vessels. Member states stressed the importance of protecting freedom of navigation and ensuring the safety of seafarers and international trade.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/07/16/imo-council-reaffirms-commitment-to-protecting-vital-shipping-lanes/
.3.Geopolitical fragmentation reshaping shipping
Growing geopolitical tensions are increasingly reshaping global shipping patterns, with companies adapting routes, supply chains and investment strategies. Trade fragmentation is creating both new commercial opportunities and additional operational risks for shipowners and charterers.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/07/16/geopolitical-fragmentation-reshaping-shipping/
.4.Rubico expands MR tanker newbuild bet with Top Ships deal
Rubico has expanded its investment in the MR tanker sector by agreeing to acquire additional newbuilding vessels from Top Ships. The move reflects continued confidence in the long-term prospects of the product tanker market.
https://splash247.com/rubico-expands-mr-tanker-newbuild-bet-with-top-ships-deal/
.5.AF Offshore Decom and Heerema land another North Sea removal deal
AF Offshore Decom and Heerema have secured another contract covering offshore platform removal work in the North Sea. The agreement strengthens both companies’ positions in the growing offshore decommissioning market.
https://splash247.com/af-offshore-decom-and-heerema-land-another-north-sea-removal-deal/
.6.Minerva scales up boxship bet with Hengli quartet
Minerva has expanded its container shipping investment by ordering four additional boxships from China’s Hengli shipyard. The latest order underlines the company’s confidence in long-term container market demand.
https://splash247.com/minerva-scales-up-boxship-bet-with-hengli-quartet/
.7.Iran threatens wider energy chokepoints after fresh U.S. strikes
Iran has warned it could target additional strategic energy chokepoints following new U.S. military strikes. The threat has heightened concerns over potential disruptions to global oil shipments and maritime security.
https://gcaptain.com/iran-threatens-wider-energy-chokepoints-after-fresh-u-s-strikes/
.8.China launches first scheduled weekly Arctic container service to Europe
China has launched its first regular weekly container shipping service between China and Europe via the Arctic route. The new service aims to reduce transit times while taking advantage of seasonal Arctic navigation.
https://gcaptain.com/china-launches-first-scheduled-weekly-arctic-container-service-to-europe/
.9.From charts to decision support: the UKHO on the next generation of navigation
The UK Hydrographic Office is developing new navigation solutions that move beyond traditional electronic charts toward decision-support systems. The initiative is designed to improve situational awareness and enhance safety for mariners.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/technology/from-charts-to-decision-support-the-ukho-on-the-next-generation-of-navigation
.10.ECSA wants EU ETS suspended for outermost regions
The European Community Shipowners’ Associations has called for the EU Emissions Trading System to be suspended for the EU’s outermost regions. ECSA argues that the current rules could disproportionately affect regional connectivity and increase transport costs.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/maritime/ecsa-wants-eu-ets-suspended-for-outmost-regions/