Cosco Shipping Ports (CSP) has received approval for a 50-year concession to develop and operate a multipurpose terminal at Spain’s Port of Tarragona—its first new investment in a European port in over three years. The $168m project will be run by a Chinese-led joint venture and is expected to start operations later this year, reaching a capacity of 680,000 TEU by 2028. The terminal will handle containers, vehicles, ro-ro traffic, and rail cargo, serving as a logistics hub linking Europe with Asia and Latin America. The project reflects China’s continued interest in expanding its presence in European ports despite growing political scrutiny and tighter EU regulations over foreign (especially Chinese) involvement in critical infrastructure.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Alternative fuel boxship newbuild orders stall as focus shifts to feeder fleet replacement

Orders for dual‑fuel containerships have dropped sharply in 2026, with only 25% of new orders featuring dual‑fuel systems, down from 60% in early 2025. However, this decline reflects a shift in fleet strategy—not a retreat from decarbonization. Shipping companies are now focusing more on smaller feeder and regional vessels, where the high cost of dual‑fuel technology is harder to justify. Larger ships still adopt alternative fuels, but such projects are less common. Methanol‑fueled ship orders have fallen to zero in 2026, while LNG remains dominant due to its established infrastructure. Regulatory uncertainty and limited availability of green methanol are also delaying investment decisions. At the same time, companies continue retrofitting existing ships for alternative fuels, though future commitments may weaken due to high costs.

Read more: Lloyd’s List 

Middle East crisis drags on global box volumes

The Middle East Gulf crisis remains the biggest negative factor, reducing global April container volumes by about 660,000 TEU (≈4%) and lowering 2026 YTD growth to 5.1% from over 6%. Despite this, the global market is resilient: carriers are rerouting cargo via Red Sea hubs and adapting networks quickly. North America imports rebounded (+6.2% year-on-year in April), driven by a strong recovery in transpacific trade, especially increased Chinese exports to the US. Asia–Europe trade remains strong, with year-to-date growth of 14.3% and continued demand momentum. Emerging routes (Asia–Africa, Asia–Latin America) are also growing rapidly. Freight rates are rising, especially on Middle East-related trades, reflecting disruption and capacity shifts.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (127) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

Outlook for the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework (NZF) remains uncertain following MEPC84, with experts divided on its prospects. While the NZF has not been dismissed, its adoption “as is” appears unlikely due to continued disagreement, particularly over carbon pricing. The US strongly opposes economic measures that leave key elements, such as the Net-Zero Fund, effectively stalled. Despite this, a majority of countries (about 59) support using the NZF as a basis for further negotiations. Alternative proposals from Japan and a Liberia-led group exist but have limited backing. Any significant revisions would delay both adoption and entry into force. As a result, shipowners and operators face ongoing uncertainty regarding future global regulations and long-term investment decisions.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

What to expect from the UK ETS

The UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) will begin including shipping from July 1, but its scope is narrower than the EU ETS, as it currently excludes international voyages. While the financial impact may be limited, companies still face significant administrative burdens, particularly for monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV), even for relatively small in-port emissions. Shipping is expected to have little influence on carbon prices due to its small share of total emissions. Some uncertainties remain, including emission factors, while the scheme’s future expansion to international shipping may depend on global climate negotiations at the IMO.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

First wave of ammonia dual-fuel cargoships set for delivery across multiple sectors

The first wave of large commercial vessels capable of operating on ammonia fuel is approaching delivery, marking a key milestone in maritime decarbonization. So far, 47 ammonia-fueled newbuildings and several retrofit projects have been ordered globally. Belgian shipowner CMB.Tech is leading adoption, with multiple vessels under construction across segments such as bulk carriers, container ships, gas carriers, and tankers. Notable projects include the Yara Eyde, which will launch Europe’s first ammonia-powered international container route. Other companies are also advancing ammonia adoption, including retrofits such as Norway’s Viking Energy, as well as newbuild vehicle carriers and tankers scheduled for delivery from 2027 onward. While order activity has slowed recently, ammonia is emerging as a promising zero-carbon fuel, with further expansion expected.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (126) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

Opposition to the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework (NZF) succeeded in keeping alternative proposals under discussion by prolonging procedural debates. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the US, and Liberia pushed for continued consideration of a weaker, fossil fuel-based alternative, while progressive states preferred focusing solely on advancing the NZF. As a result, no clear agreement was reached at MEPC84, and further intersessional meetings were scheduled, leaving the NZF’s adoption uncertain and giving opponents more opportunities to delay or weaken it.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Maersk warns excess capacity and geopolitical tensions continue to pressure box market

Maersk reported weaker Q1 2026 financial results as falling freight rates offset strong volume growth. Container volumes rose 9.3%, but average freight rates dropped 14%, leading to a 2.6% decline in revenue to $13 billion and a 33% fall in EBITDA to $1.8 billion. While demand remained solid across most regions, the market faced ongoing pressure from excess shipping capacity and geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East. Rising fuel costs and disruptions increased uncertainty, though cost controls and operational adjustments helped mitigate the impact. Maersk maintained its full-year outlook but warned that risks remain skewed to the downside due to high energy prices and geopolitical instability.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

European shipping risks a decline without investment in clean fuels

European shipping is growing in absolute terms, but its global share is declining as Asian fleets expand more rapidly. While European shipowners lead in ordering environmentally friendly vessels (44% of global orders), Europe lags far behind Asia in clean fuel production, accounting for only 10% compared to Asia’s 74%. The European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA) warns that without stronger investment in clean fuel production—especially through reinvesting the €9bn annual ETS contributions—Europe risks losing competitiveness and energy security. Despite ambitious climate goals, insufficient fuel availability and investment could undermine the energy transition and Europe’s position in global shipping.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Vehicle shipping demand holds firm despite rising costs and geopolitics, says Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Global vehicle shipping demand remains strong, supported by high utilization and robust exports from Asia—especially China—which offset declining volumes from Europe and the US. This growing East–West trade imbalance continues to sustain demand for vehicle carriers. However, rising geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, along with higher fuel costs and a tighter charter market, are increasing pressure on the sector. Wallenius Wilhelmsen expects higher bunker costs to impact short-term earnings, though some of the impact may be offset by surcharges. Despite limited direct exposure to the Middle East, the company lowered its 2026 outlook due to rising costs. While global auto exports remain solid, higher energy prices and economic uncertainty could weaken future demand.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (125) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

Indonesia’s finance minister briefly suggested charging tolls on ships transiting the Strait of Malacca, inspired by Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, but quickly retracted the idea as impractical. The comments came amid rising global concern over maritime security following Iran’s seizure of vessels in Hormuz. Malaysia and Singapore firmly rejected any toll proposal, stressing that free transit through the Malacca Strait is guaranteed under UNCLOS and is vital for trade-dependent economies. All three countries emphasized a cooperative framework to keep the strait open. Given that the Malacca Strait handles around a quarter of global trade and a third of seaborne oil, any disruption or closure would severely impact global trade and energy security.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Shipping trade bodies stick by net zero ambition ahead of MEPC84

Major global shipping industry bodies reaffirmed their commitment to the IMO’s 2023 net‑zero greenhouse gas strategy ahead of MEPC84, while stopping short of explicitly endorsing the IMO’s proposed Net‑Zero Framework (NZF), which includes a global carbon pricing mechanism. They emphasized the need for regulatory certainty, warning that fragmented regional rules would undermine investments already made in alternative fuels and green technologies. Although the NZF faces strong political opposition, particularly from the US and oil‑exporting countries, the industry groups continue to back the IMO as the single global regulator. Deep divisions remain among shipowners and member states over carbon pricing, transition fuels such as LNG, and how any revenues should be used, casting uncertainty over whether the NZF will ultimately be adopted.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Hormuz crisis drives up Panama Canal delays and auction prices

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz has diverted large volumes of energy cargo to alternative routes, sharply increasing congestion at the Panama Canal. Crude oil, refined products, and LPG shipments from the US Gulf to Asia—normally limited—have surged, pushing daily canal traffic to near-peak levels. As more vessels arrive without reservations, waiting times in both directions have risen to around 5–6 days on average in April, with some ships waiting up to two weeks. Auction prices for priority transit slots have spiked to record or near‑record levels, including up to $1.7m for a panamax slot and $4m for a neopanamax slot. Canal congestion is also supporting VLGC freight rates, as more LPG cargoes are rerouted via the longer Cape of Good Hope.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (124) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

According to the report from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES), the duration of a potential shutdown in the Strait of Hormuz will be the deciding factor for the global energy landscape. A short disruption of LNG exports from the Middle East Gulf would be manageable for global markets, with limited price impact. However, a shutdown lasting six months to a year—such as a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz—would severely disrupt global LNG flows, drive gas prices sharply higher, and cause demand destruction in Europe, India, and China. Even if fighting ends, continued security risks could delay LNG shipping, and replacing lost Qatari and UAE supply may take until 2028, largely through US capacity expansions.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Hormuz crisis could curb box shipping demand but no fallout yet

The Hormuz crisis has not yet had a significant impact on global container shipping, although potential risks remain. Container freight rates on major trades are fluctuating within normal ranges: transpacific spot rates have risen recently, while Asia–Europe rates have peaked and edged down. US container imports in March were broadly in line with last year and remain historically strong. Capacity levels have been stable, suggesting rate movements are driven more by seasonal demand recovery and market sentiment than by supply constraints. While higher fuel costs from the Middle East conflict could eventually weigh on demand and increase surcharges, any major fallout for container shipping has so far been limited and indirect.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (123) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

The IMO’s work on carbon-intensity rankings for marine fuels, while presented as a technical climate-policy exercise, is, in reality, a battle over future fuel market share. Small differences in assigned emission factors—especially for LNG—can lead to major financial consequences for shipowners, including compliance issues or multi-million-dollar penalties. As a result, countries with fuels to sell are pushing for classifications that favor their own exports. Overall, the debate shows that, IMO, climate regulation is not only about decarbonization but also about geopolitics, fuel competitiveness, and who wins or loses in the future maritime energy market.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Shipping won’t fix its methane slip without regulation, says industry group

The European industry group, The Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII), argues that LNG shipping will not address methane slip without regulation and urges the EU to introduce regulatory credits that reward reductions. While new engine designs have significantly reduced methane slip, older and leakier engines still dominate the global fleet. MAMII is calling for support for abatement technologies such as oxidation catalysts and plasma reactors, warning that without incentives or penalties, action will be delayed or avoided. Although methane emissions will now fall under the EU ETS, MAMII cautions that European maritime technology firms could lose out to competitors in Asia and elsewhere unless the EU actively nurtures domestic solutions, despite LNG remaining a key marine fuel for many years.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Automotive sector set for disruption as large vehicle carriers remain stranded in Gulf

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz has severely disrupted automotive shipping, leaving 15 vehicle carriers stranded in the Gulf of the Middle East. Before the crisis, up to 25 car carriers per week served Gulf ports, mainly carrying vehicles from Asia. Because vehicle carriers operate on highly interconnected global routes, the loss of even a small number of ships has disrupted fixed liner schedules worldwide. The impact is especially serious for Asian automakers, with the Middle East being a key export market—particularly for China, which shipped about 1.4 million vehicles to the region in 2025. Japanese, Chinese, and South Korean operators are among the most exposed. While companies are diverting ships to alternative ports in India, Oman, and Saudi Arabia and using overland transport, these measures are raising costs and long-term risks across global automotive and parts supply chains.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

LNG a ‘blessing in disguise’ as shipping mulls alternatives amid bunker shortage

Geopolitical tensions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, have led to shortages and higher prices of conventional marine fuels such as HSFO and VLSFO. As a result, shipowners are increasingly considering LNG as an alternative bunker fuel. LNG offers diversified sourcing options (including the US, Canada, and Australia) and may be cost-effective in the long term, especially when carbon tax exemptions are factored in. CMA CGM plans to expand its LNG dual-fuel fleet to 144 vessels by 2030. However, LNG adoption faces limitations, notably reduced supply following attacks affecting Qatar, a major LNG exporter, as well as environmental concerns related to methane slip. Consequently, industry leaders emphasize the importance of a diverse mix of alternative fuels, such as ethanol and ammonia, to enhance energy security and resilience against geopolitical disruptions.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (122) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

After the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that IEEPA tariffs were illegal, CBP is now required to refund $166 billion to importers, but currently lacks the systems and manpower to comply. The agency is working to deploy new electronic refund capabilities within 45 days, while the court warns that delays could result in massive interest costs by year‑end. Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s fallback measure—a global 10% tariff under Section 122 (with a possible increase to 15%)—is being challenged by 24 U.S. states as an improper use of the statute. Additionally, an appeal regarding adjustments to Section 301 tariffs is seeking a Supreme Court review. Overall, following the invalidation of IEEPA tariffs, multiple tariff mechanisms are now tied up in litigation, creating significant uncertainty in U.S. trade policy. Industry experts expect tariffs to remain a persistent policy tool regardless of future administrations.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

IMO net zero battle lines reform ahead of MEPC84

Ahead of MEPC84, petrostates oppose the current Net-Zero Framework (NZF) and seek to dilute carbon‑pricing measures, while Pacific Islands demand adopting the NZF unchanged or with stronger ambition. Brazil argues that the NZF is the only credible and widely supported pathway to meet the IMO’s climate goals, noting that it is not a global tax, as fuel‑switching can also ensure compliance. The U.S. is expected to oppose the NZF even more strongly this round. Brazil proposes addressing adoption at MEPC85 and, if consensus remains out of reach, postponing any changes.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Up to 140 containerships at risk in Gulf as indiscriminate attacks spread

Escalating conflict in the Middle East Gulf has led to indiscriminate attacks on shipping, leaving up to 140 containerships effectively stranded in the region. Three containerships have been hit in recent days, and the lack of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz has brought container traffic to a standstill. Major carriers such as MSC, CMA CGM, Maersk, and Hapag-Lloyd, as well as tonnage providers including Seaspan, Danaos, and Global Ship Lease, are heavily exposed. Carriers have suspended bookings to Gulf ports, rerouted cargo to contingency hubs, and caused congestion across the Arabian Sea, Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. The crisis has rapidly become one of the most severe disruptions to global container shipping in recent years, creating significant operational, financial, and safety challenges for both operators and vessel owners.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (121) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

ETFuels has secured its first binding 10‑year e‑methanol offtake agreement with chemical tanker owner RFOcean, starting in 2030. The deal is driven by the FuelEU Maritime regulation, which will require ships to use more alternative fuels from 2030. ETFuels plans to produce green methanol at its Rattlesnake Gap wind project in Texas and claims strong cost advantages from U.S. tax credits and favorable wind resources. The company’s CEO said they are confident they will secure full offtake for the entire plant by the end of this year.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Container front-loading rush unlikely as China opposes tariffs and Asia remains cautious

A surge in front‑loading container exports from Asia to the U.S. is considered unlikely, despite the latest tariff changes. Key reasons include:

・Asian exporters diversified their markets last year due to tariff volatility, reducing dependence on the U.S.

・Countries like China, India, and the EU maintained or increased export volumes by finding new destinations.

・The new flat 10% tariff (with possible increase to 15%) is less disruptive than previous higher, country‑specific tariffs.

China still faces high effective tariff levels because other tariffs (Sections 301 and 232) remain in place. Vietnam benefits significantly from the removal of IEEPA tariffs, while Japan and South Korea see only limited gains. Asian governments remain cautious and are pursuing strategies such as FTA negotiations to mitigate future risks. China continues to oppose U.S. unilateral tariffs, stating that “there are no winners in a trade war.”

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Trump’s Supreme Court defeat could make future tariffs even worse

Although the U.S. Supreme Court struck down IEEPA tariffs, President Trump is doubling down on tariffs, and future duties could become even more punitive.

・After IEEPA ended, the U.S. imposed a temporary 10% global tariff under Section 122, which expires after 150 days.

・This period is intended to serve as a bridge to implement new, more flexible Section 301 tariffs, which have no time limit.

・Section 301 and 232 tariffs require formal investigations, public comments, and hearings, meaning implementation will take several months.

・Because future tariffs under Section 301 could exceed current Section 122 levels, front‑loading of imports may occur.

・The EU paused its trade deal approval due to Trump’s unpredictable tariff statements (e.g., the threatened 15% tariff).

・Upcoming Section 301 investigations will require the U.S. to label many trading partners as having “unfair” practices, leading to greater trade friction and potential retaliation.

・Once Section 301 is fully reinstated, the administration would regain the flexible tariff authority it had under IEEPA, enabling rapid tariff changes.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Iran attacks prompt Red Sea rethink as box shipping exits Strait of Hormuz

Following U.S. and Israeli pre‑emptive strikes on Iran, major container carriers have halted transits through the Strait of Hormuz and suspended Suez/Red Sea routes due to escalating security risks.

Around 170 containerships (450,000 TEU) are currently trapped inside Hormuz, facing restrictions on exiting.

Middle East Gulf ports—including Jebel Ali, Shuaiba, and Bahrain’s Khalifa bin Salman—have reported shutdowns, evacuations, and operational disruptions caused by debris from attacks and safety concerns.

Carriers such as MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag‑Lloyd have ordered vessels to seek safe shelter, suspended Gulf calls, and rerouted services back around the Cape of Good Hope, reversing earlier plans to return to the Red Sea route.

The situation threatens to further tighten global container capacity, prolong longer voyage times, and limit the expected fall in freight rates. There is speculation that Chinese‑owned vessels may receive exemptions from restrictions imposed by Iran.

With Iran vowing retaliation and Houthi forces reportedly preparing to resume attacks in the Red Sea, the shipping industry faces renewed instability across multiple critical chokepoints.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (120) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

HMM warned of a rising risk of container ship oversupply after its 2025 earnings dropped sharply. Revenue and profits fell significantly due to weakening freight rates, echoing concerns raised by Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd. The global container ship orderbook has reached a 15‑year high, accounting for about 36% of the fleet, raising fears that supply will outstrip demand. Although deliveries will slow in 2026, a new wave is expected to begin in 2027. Freight rates continue to soften, making peak season surcharges unlikely to succeed. HMM plans to strengthen its hub‑and‑spoke network, expand low‑emission services, and diversify its bulk business to manage the downturn.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Med revolt leaves Brussels in climate bind at IMO

Mediterranean EU countries — Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta — are opposing the IMO’s Net‑Zero Framework (NZF), breaking EU unity.　Their stance is strengthened by the Greek EU transport commissioner and Cyprus’s EU Council presidency. The IMO is urging the EU to accept a FuelEU‑style compromise that favors LNG and raises little climate revenue. Such a plan would satisfy the US and Middle Eastern states but anger Pacific Island and African nations, who expect climate finance. Despite this, Nordic and several EU states still support the NZF, though US–Saudi resistance may still block it. EU disunity risks further delaying the NZF and could lead the EU to retain its own ETS rather than shift to an IMO mechanism.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Beijing throws weight behind Shanghai’s green bunkering push

Beijing is backing Shanghai’s plan to become a global hub for green marine fuel bunkering and trading by 2030. A new multi‑agency plan targets more than 1 million cubic meters of bonded LNG and over 1 million tonnes of methanol/biofuel bunkering annually. Although Shanghai has made progress—such as a 54% jump in bonded LNG bunkering in 2025—it remains behind Singapore in LNG supply. To close the gap, China will expand green‑fuel production, improve logistics corridors, launch night‑time bunkering, and develop a green‑fuel exchange and LNG futures market to boost Shanghai’s pricing influence. Shanghai currently leads Singapore in green methanol bunkering.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Trump’s Maritime Action Plan seeks to resurrect US port fees

The Trump administration’s Maritime Action Plan proposes a universal fee on all foreign-built ships bringing imports to the U.S., charged by cargo weight (USD 0.01–0.25 per kg). Even at the lowest level, the fee would significantly raise costs for container ships, tankers, and car carriers; at the highest level, it would be prohibitive. Revenue would support U.S. shipbuilding and maritime workforce programs. The fee would mainly affect U.S. imports of containerized goods, oil/products, and vehicles, potentially adding millions of dollars per vessel call. A new land port tax aims to prevent shippers from routing cargo through Canada or Mexico, but it would not fully offset incentives to avoid U.S. ports. Implementation faces political, legal, and diplomatic hurdles, including the risk of retaliation and uncertainty over whether Congress or the USTR could authorize such fees. The plan may struggle to advance.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (119) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。

The EU plans to ringfence around €10 billion in annual ETS revenues from the maritime sector by 2030 exclusively for maritime decarbonization projects. This will be formalized in the upcoming EU Industrial Maritime Strategy. The move responds to long‑standing industry demands and aims to ensure that shipping receives dedicated funding for clean technologies. However, the final design may change depending on discussions under the IMO’s Net‑Zero Framework later this year, as the EU intends to align its climate policies with global rules and avoid double-charging. The EU is also preparing measures to protect EU ports from evasive transshipment and bunkering linked to ETS implementation, and may delay ETS obligations for shortsea shipping to prevent a shift from sea to road transport.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Asia’s big container lines advancing dual-fuel boxship race

Asian container carriers, once slower than European rivals to adopt dual-fuel technology, are rapidly closing the gap as decarbonization pressures intensify. Since late 2025, most new alternative-fuel containership orders have come from Asia, with LNG emerging as the dominant choice, alongside continued interest in methanol. Major Asian carriers such as COSCO, Evergreen, Wan Hai, HMM, and PIL are accelerating investments in dual-fuel newbuildings and retrofits, often diversifying across LNG and methanol to hedge regulatory and fuel-supply uncertainty. While European leaders like MSC and CMA CGM still hold an early-mover advantage, the scale and speed of Asian commitments indicate the decarbonization gap is narrowing quickly.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

Panama court strikes down CK Hutchison port contracts

Panama’s Supreme Court has ruled that port concession contracts held by CK Hutchison’s subsidiary, Panama Ports Company (PPC), for the Balboa and Cristobal container terminals are unconstitutional. The decision casts uncertainty over CK Hutchison’s planned $23 billion global port sale to a BlackRock‑led consortium, which included these terminals. PPC strongly rejected the ruling, arguing it lacks a legal basis and warning of negative impacts on investment, jobs, and legal certainty in Panama. The government stated that PPC will continue operations until the ruling becomes final, after which APM Terminals has expressed willingness to operate the ports temporarily until a new concession is awarded.

Read more: Lloyd’s List

投稿 World Maritime News (118) は IAPH に最初に表示されました。