Rising geopolitical tensions are placing global shipping under renewed scrutiny. The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control has issued a strong warning: companies could face sanctions if they make any form of payment to Iran in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway—handling nearly 20% […]
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On 23 April 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted its 20th sanctions package against Russia, reinforcing and expanding existing measures under Regulations (EU) 833/2014 and 269/2014. Implemented through Council Regulations (EU) 2026/506, 2026/509, and 2026/511, the package represents one of the most comprehensive updates in recent years, particularly […]
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What separates a good seafarer from a great one? Consistent learning and staying updated. Our latest edition is built to help you do exactly that—with relevant topics, real scenarios, and easy-to-digest insights. Give it a read and sharpen your edge. Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay ahead. To register and start […]
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An oil tanker, Honour 25, has been hijacked by armed pirates approximately 30 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, with the incident confirmed by UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Incident Overview The hijacking occurred late Wednesday when six armed individuals boarded and took control of the vessel while underway. […]
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Recent testing by Veritas Petroleum Services (VPS) has raised concerns over bunker fuel quality in Singapore, leading to multiple alerts and an official circular. Veritas Petroleum Services (VPS) has reported the detection of quality irregularities in Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) supplied in Singapore during February and March 2026. […]
Read moreThe outbreak of hostilities in the Persian Gulf has sent shockwaves through global shipping markets, raising urgent legal questions for shipowners and charterers. From safe port obligations to war risk clauses and force majeure, contractual frameworks are being tested in real time. Region on Edge On 28 February 2026, US […]
Read moreThe IMB Piracy Reporting Centre recorded 16 incidents between January and March 2026, with Southeast Asia continuing to dominate the global count as Somali and Gulf of Guinea waters show signs of improvement. We have received the Q1 2026 Piracy and Armed Robbery Report from the International Maritime Bureau Piracy […]
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German customs authorities have uncovered approximately 1.6 tonnes of cocaine, valued at nearly €30 million, concealed within a shipment of bananas at the Port of Hamburg. The operation, carried out in coordination with Hamburg police, marks a significant success in the ongoing fight against international drug trafficking. The seizure was […]
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Key Highlights What’s Happening The United States has announced a sweeping naval blockade targeting all maritime traffic entering and leaving Iranian ports, following the breakdown of high-level talks over the weekend. The move threatens to unravel a fragile ceasefire that had only been in place for two weeks after weeks […]
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Top Deficiency Areas Leading to Detentions 1. Lifeboats (1101) Category: Life Saving Appliances Associated Detentions: 788 2. Fixed fire extinguishing installation (07109) Category: Fire Safety Associated Detentions: 775 3. Fire detection and alarm system (07106) Category: Fire Safety Associated Detentions: 743 4. Fire doors/openings in fire-resisting divisions (07105) Category: Fire […]
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