World Maritime News
WMNF 11/06/2025
Northern Europe port congestion to last until at least August
Container ports in Northern Europe, including Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hamburg, are experiencing significant congestion, which is expected to last until at least August. The congestion is due to strong demand, alliance restructuring, industrial action, and other factors. Shipping lines such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC are adjusting their schedules, extending transit times, and rerouting services to avoid the ports most severely affected. As the peak season approaches, carriers are proactively adjusting port rotations to minimize delays. Analysts expect congestion to persist until the end of the peak season, provided no further major disruptions occur.
Read more: Lloyd’s List
Global container volumes continue to surprise
Global container traffic increased by 5.8% in April, following a record-breaking March. Despite US tariffs weakening North American imports, Asian exports remained strong, especially to Europe. Trade with emerging markets surged, with significant increases in shipments to the Indian subcontinent, South America, and Sub-Saharan Africa. The global container trade defied forecasts for a weak trading year, showing resilience and steady growth.
Read more: Lloyd’s List
Dual-fuel vessel deliveries set to peak in 2025, led by containerships and vehicle carriers
A record 292 ships capable of operating on alternative fuels are set to be delivered in 2025, up from 198 in 2024. This includes 126 containerships and 60 pure car and truck carriers. 75% of these newbuildings are LNG dual-fuel vessels, with the remainder being methanol-capable. The containership sector leads in dual-fuel vessel deliveries, followed by vehicle carriers and tankers. The alternative-fuel-capable vessel fleet is expected to reach nearly 1,000 ships by the end of 2025.
Read more: Lloyd’s List
EU under pressure to scrap green regulations
The European Commission will decide on the future of EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime regulations in 2026 or 2027. The decision will be based on the climate ambition of the incoming IMO net zero framework, set to come into force in 2028. Shipowners warn that double taxation could result if EU regulations are not aligned with the IMO’s framework, potentially making Europe less competitive. Complex regulations favor larger companies, driving smaller ones out of the market. The EU is still analyzing the IMO’s guidelines and environmental integrity before making a decision.
Read more: Lloyd’s List
Shipping still in the dark on US port fee details that have yet to be finalized
Port fees are scheduled to take effect on October 14; however, final details have yet to be announced by the US Trade Representative (USTR). More revisions to the plan are anticipated following hearings and comments. Shipping companies are uncertain about how the fees will be implemented, leading to potential redeployments of tonnage before final details are known. The specifics of implementing port fees have proven more complex than initially thought, raising numerous questions about collection, exemptions, and appeals processes. There may be legal challenges once the final decision is announced.
Read more: Lloyd’s List
Shipping will face decarbonization pressure from below, as well as above
Companies like IKEA are pushing for low-emission shipping to meet ambitious climate goals, creating demand through alliances like the Zero Emissions Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA). IKEA aims to reduce transport emissions by 70% by 2030 and use zero-emissions transport by 2040, putting pressure on carriers to provide sustainable solutions. Wallenius Wilhelmsen emphasizes the need for a regulated carbon price to drive decarbonization, acknowledging the role of consumer demand and regulatory pressure. Shipping faces pressure from both consumers and regulators to decarbonize, necessitating investment in green technologies and fuels.
Read more: Lloyd’s List