World Maritime News
WMNF 18/03/2026
Customs ordered to refund $166bn in tariffs but it can’t comply (yet)
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