UK Expands Emissions Trading Scheme to Shipping from 1 July 2026

The United Kingdom has officially extended its Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) to the maritime sector, introducing new carbon compliance requirements for qualifying vessels operating on domestic UK voyages. Effective 1 July 2026, shipowners and charterers must comply with mandatory emissions monitoring, reporting and carbon allowance obligations, marking another significant […]

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New Employment Contract Brings Major Protection Boost for Filipino Seafarers

A significant overhaul of the employment framework for Filipino seafarers has come into effect, introducing one of the most comprehensive updates in recent years. Effective from 3 July 2026, the revised Standard Employment Contract strengthens seafarer welfare, modernizes compensation, enhances employer responsibilities, and aligns employment conditions with current international maritime […]

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US Temporarily Relaxes Iran Oil Sanctions, But Global Shipping Still Faces Complex Compliance Landscape

The United States has introduced a temporary easing of certain sanctions on Iranian petroleum trade, offering limited relief for companies involved in the transportation of Iranian crude oil, petroleum products, and petrochemicals. However, maritime stakeholders are being warned that significant legal, insurance, and compliance risks remain due to the continued […]

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The American Club – Circular No. 14/26

OFAC General License X for Iranian-Origin Oil and Petroleum Products ✅ On 22 June 2026, the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued General License X, temporarily authorizing certain transactions involving Iranian-origin crude oil, petrochemical products, and petroleum products.✅ The authorization is valid until 12:01 a.m. EDT on 21 […]

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PSC FOCUS WK :16 — MLC & PSC

Why MLC Compliance Matters During Port State Control Inspections Port State Control (PSC) inspections continue to identify recurring Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) deficiencies onboard vessels. Being caught with these issues can lead to detentions, delays, and reputational damage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common deficiencies found — and […]

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HNS Convention Finally Sets Sail: Global Compensation Regime for Hazardous Cargo Incidents to Take Effect in 2027

The maritime industry has reached a historic milestone with the confirmation that the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea (2010 HNS Convention) will officially enter into force on 29 November 2027. This long-awaited development closes one […]

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