The Norwegian Government has decided to introduce zero-emission requirements in the World Heritage fjords. In a circular the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) confirmed the changes will be effective from 1 January 2026 for passenger ships of less than 10,000 gross tonnage and from 1 January 2032 for passenger ships of 10,000 gross tonnage and upwards. Continue reading “Norwegian Gov introduces zero-emission requirement”
Government
EU assesses potential inclusion of small ships under EU MRV
The European Commission has published a report assessing the potential inclusion of small ships between 400 and 5000 gross tonnage under the scope of the EU regulation for the Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of maritime greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The analysis identifies that over 5300 smaller vessels, which are emitting around 11 million tonnes of CO2 every year, are currently not covered by the legislation.
“Including these ships could increase the amount of emissions covered by the legislation by around 9%, while expanding the number of regulated ships by around 42%,” the Commission stated. Continue reading “EU assesses potential inclusion of small ships under EU MRV”
Sri Lanka to implement regulatory framework for the boating industry
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) has taken a significant step towards fostering the growth of Sri Lanka’s boat building and boating industry by taking initiatives to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework. This framework aims to enhance the sector’s potential, driving it forward with greater international competitiveness. To ensure effective understanding and collaboration, the EDB organized awareness creation sessions for both public and private sector stakeholders, to aware them on the recent gazette notification issued on the regulatory framework. Continue reading “Sri Lanka to implement regulatory framework for the boating industry”
New report data highlights dangers of maritime cyber threats
Only 1 in 6 shipowners fully understand what a cyber-secure vessel should look like upon delivery, highlighting a critical gap in the industry’s approach to maritime cybersecurity. The report, jointly published by Thetius, CyberOwl, a DNV company and HFW, explores key stakeholder challenges and approaches to managing cybersecurity and cyber threats across the lifecycle of a vessel.
The Lifecycle Dilemma: Navigating Cybersecurity Risks Across Designing, Constructing and Operating a Vessel delves into the shifting risks and disconnected approaches in cybersecurity across each stage from initial design Continue reading “New report data highlights dangers of maritime cyber threats”
USCG issues alert for defective heat detectors
The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a safety alert regarding the issue of defective heat detectors that were discovered during an engine room fire investigation.
The Coast Guard recently investigated an engine room fire on board an inspected towing vessel which led to the discovery of issues with the maintenance and installation of fire detection systems on board multiple towing vessels. During the investigation, several towing vessels were discovered to have defective heat detectors installed in their engine rooms. Continue reading “USCG issues alert for defective heat detectors”
New loading conditions for transporting grain in bulk
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has released guidance on an update to International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk, which is set to take effect on 1 January 2026.
The IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) adopted resolution MSC.552(108) at its 108th session in May 2024, which includes amendments to the Grain Code. Continue reading “New loading conditions for transporting grain in bulk”
Enforced ISO bunker sampling standard for Port of Rotterdam
Dutch authorities are set to enforce ISO bunker sampling standard in Port of Rotterdam, according to the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA).
The Association has said the IBIA Secretariat has received information from the Port of Rotterdam that the Inspectorate for Environment and Transport in the Netherlands is planning for the Port of Rotterdam to strictly enforce the rules for fuel oil sampling (the MARPOL sample) on board the receiving vessel via drip sampling to conform with ISO 13739. Continue reading “Enforced ISO bunker sampling standard for Port of Rotterdam”
RSG 2025 guidelines published
The Recreational Craft Sectoral Group (RSG) has unveiled its latest edition. The RSG 2025 guidelines introduce significant updates to assist manufacturers, Notified Bodies, and market surveillance authorities in adhering to Directive 2013/53/EU on recreational and personal watercraft. This latest edition emphasizes the integration of new harmonized ISO standards, reflecting advancements in technology and safety protocols within the marine industry.
Key updates in the RSG 2025 guidelines include revised criteria for compliance, particularly concerning the installation of lithium-ion batteries and the testing protocols for dual outboard engine vessels. These changes aim to enhance safety and environmental performance, ensuring that watercraft meet contemporary standards. Continue reading “RSG 2025 guidelines published”
Maritime Labour Convention inspections MGN 600 for coded vessels updated by MCA
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has published MGN 600 (M) Amendment 3, which updates the inspection requirements for coded vessels under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
The updated guidance clarifies inspection procedures for vessels under 500GT, ensuring they meet the MLC’s core principles, including appropriate crew accommodation, fair working conditions, regulated rest hours, and comprehensive health and safety measures. These changes aim to align the standards for coded vessels more closely with international maritime regulations, strengthening compliance across the sector. Specifically there is an added annexe which provides an inspection report form. Continue reading “Maritime Labour Convention inspections MGN 600 for coded vessels updated by MCA”
Smart Container Alliance launched to evolve the container industry
The Smart Container Alliance has been officially launched to drive the adoption of smart container technology.
This initiative unites industry leaders to enhance cargo traceability, fortify maritime trade, and support global enforcement agencies in combating criminal networks. With geopolitical instability and climate disruptions posing risks to global trade, shipping companies must prioritize security and efficiency. The Alliance aims to advance industry standards, advocate for policy change, and foster collaboration among technology providers, shipowners, customs authorities, and international regulatory bodies like the EU and World Customs Organization (WCO).
“Smart Cargo and Container Telematics are the foundation for the 21st Century Supply Chain with revolutionary new solutions for our society, authorities, governments, and businesses to structurally reduce illicit trade, cargo contamination, cargo waste, theft, and supply chain carbon footprint while simultaneously enhancing product authentication, on-time delivery commitments, asset productivity, and cargo integrity and quality”, said Charles Vincent, CEO ARVIEM. Continue reading “Smart Container Alliance launched to evolve the container industry”
Upcoming deadline for new EU regulation on firefighting suits
Shipowners and operators of EU vessels must take steps to ensure that all new firefighting suits on board comply with changes to European regulations which enter into force from June 2025, according to urgent advice from VIKING Life-Saving Equipment.
The life-saving equipment solutions provider recommends fleet managers undertake a full risk assessment of their firefighting suits to verify compliance with requirements applying under MED regulations (EU) 2024/1975. These are in addition to provisions in effect since August 2024 – that all new firefighting suits must be tested to EN469:2020 standards. Continue reading “Upcoming deadline for new EU regulation on firefighting suits”
BIMCO supports IGP&I’s new electronic bill of lading approval process
The first question on shipowners’ lips when asked to use electronic bills of lading should be “is the eBL platform approved by my P&I Club?” To make this “discovery” process easier, the International Group of P&I Clubs has introduced a new process for the approval of electronic bill of lading systems. This new process takes into account recent legislative developments that recognise electronic bills of lading as equivalent to their paper counterparts. System providers who seek IG approval and meet the necessary requirements will now be easily identifiable on the Group’s website. This streamlined approach is designed to benefit both members and system providers, making the approval process more efficient. Continue reading “BIMCO supports IGP&I’s new electronic bill of lading approval process”