- Kazakhstan has suspended oil flows through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline due to the entry of chloride-contaminated crude, causing significant disruption to its oil exports. This has forced the country to increase reliance on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) route via Russia, tightening available tanker tonnage in the Mediterranean and beyond. As a result, spot rates for Suezmax tankers have surged, reflecting heightened demand amid limited shipping options. The export difficulties highlight ongoing regulatory and logistical challenges impacting Kazakhstan’s oil shipments and contributing to volatility in global tanker markets in 2025.
- Panels for the Geneva Dry 2026 conference, the world’s leading commodities shipping event, are taking shape. Scheduled for April 28-29, the two-day event will conclude with a high-level session on iron ore, the largest dry bulk commodity. The session will cover new markets, supply and demand, and trade dynamics, chaired by Tim Huxley, CEO of Mandarin Shipping. Other topics include minor bulks, agri-commodities, coal and decarbonisation.
- French shipping giant CMA CGM is making a minority investment in US-based Vanguard Renewables via its PULSE energy fund, securing long-term access to renewable natural gas (RNG). Vanguard operates anaerobic digesters converting farm and organic waste into low-carbon RNG, with several projects dedicated to CMA CGM. This move supports the company’s efforts to decarbonise its LNG-powered fleet.
- Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Suzuki Motor Corporation and TradeWaltz to enhance automobile trade between India and Africa. The partnership, announced at TICAD 9, aims to digitalise and decarbonise the supply chain, promoting sustainable trade practices.
- Maersk confirmed that salvage crews had been assisting the Marie Maersk since August 19 to contain a fire that began on August 12. While the blaze has been contained, it is not yet fully extinguished. A port of refuge is still being considered, and the extinguishing process may be lengthy, reflecting similar past incidents. Firefighting efforts continue off the coast of West Africa with the crew safe and the vessel stable.
- Salvors have successfully refloated and removed the 75-foot passenger vessel Discovery after it was pushed off course by heavy waves near Kewalo Basin, Honolulu, on August 9. The vessel was disabled and ran aground on a reef while attempting to enter the harbour amid high surf. Following a coordinated salvage operation on 19 August, the vessel was safely removed with minimal damage to the reef, and hazardous materials were cleared to prevent pollution. The Discovery sustained some damage but remains secure.
Cargo briefs: key developments from the SC&L industry
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