19th September 2026 – 25th September 2026
Contents
- LOCAL NEWS
- 1. Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry and Limassol Municipality announce the 5th "THALASSA" Festival
- INTERNATIONAL NEWS
- 2. U.S. Opposition to IMO Net-Zero Framework
- 3. World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice - Powering Maritime Excellence
- 4. BIMCO UPDATES:
- 5. At UN, 80 countries demand reopening of Hormuz, condemn Iran, Houthi attacks. US-Iran negotiations on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly
- 6. Substantial agreement on EU-Philippines trade deal
- 7. EU renews Russia sanctions
- 8. U.S. strikes Greenland deal at UN
- 9. Houthis promise not to target European ships
- 10. US-China agree to extend port fee suspension to January 2027
- 11. Ukraine Says It Is Ready for Black Sea Maritime Truce
- 12. US TREASURY REPORT
- 13. PIRACY REPORT
LOCAL NEWS
1. Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry and Limassol Municipality announce the 5th "THALASSA" Festival
On the 24th September 2026, the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry and the Limassol Municipality announced the 5th "THALASSA" Festival returning to Limassol on Saturday, October 10, 2026, with an all-day celebration dedicated to the sea and the shipping industry.
During the event, academic and educational institutions will showcase study options and career prospects within the shipping industry and maritime professions.
On the 2nd October 2026, Deputy Minister of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus, Ms Marina Hadjimanolis, will hold a press conference, together with the Mayor of Limassol, on the occasion of the 5th “Thalassa 2026” festival.
Related Articles:
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
2. U.S. Opposition to IMO Net-Zero Framework
On 22 September 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his opposition to the IMO’s proposed Net-Zero Framework during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, arguing that the framework’s proposed economic mechanism would effectively impose a global tax on shipping. The IMO framework, which aims to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions from international shipping through fuel-intensity requirements and an economic mechanism, remains under negotiation, with further discussions expected later in 2026.
The IMO’s proposed framework aims to establish a global approach to reducing greenhouse-gas emissions from international shipping, combining mandatory emissions-reduction requirements with an economic mechanism to encourage the use of cleaner fuels and technologies. The U.S. has strongly opposed the proposed mechanism, while IMO Member States continue to negotiate its final structure.
The adoption of the framework, originally scheduled for October 2025, was postponed for one year following disagreements among Member States. Further discussions are expected in the coming months, with the final form and implementation timeline of the framework yet to be determined.
Related Articles:
gCaptain 23/09 - Trump Takes Aim at Shipping’s Net-Zero Plan at UN
Safety4Sea 24/09 - Trump targets IMO’s Net-Zero Framework at United Nations General Assembly
Hellenic Shipping News 25/09 - Trump Renews Attacks on IMO NZF
3. World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice - Powering Maritime Excellence
On the 24 September 2026, the international maritime community celebrated World Maritime Day at a time when shipping continues to face the direct impact of geopolitical tensions and conflicts around the world. These tensions have resulted in merchant ships coming under attack in several conflict zones, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov and many seafarers losing their lives, while global trade and critical supply chains have been disrupted.
Against this backdrop, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is emphasizing the importance of upholding and effectively implementing the international regulatory framework that keeps shipping safe, secure and efficient, while protecting the people who work at sea. A key part of the IMO’s work is therefore to support Member States in effectively implementing IMO regulations and meeting their international obligations.
This year, the IMO also completed the first audit cycle under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Since the scheme became mandatory in 2016, 168 Member States, representing 94% of IMO membership, have been audited on their implementation of key IMO instruments. The audits have highlighted a number of challenges. Many countries continue to face difficulties in translating IMO requirements into national legislation, while shortages of technical expertise and infrastructure, as well as limited oversight of ships, remain areas of concern. Based on these findings, the IMO will focus its technical assistance on areas where support is most needed, including in Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.
In his official message to mark the day, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said that “this year's World Maritime Day theme, ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’, recognizes the reality that regulations will deliver safer, more resilient, and cleaner shipping when they are implemented worldwide”.
Overall, this year’s World Maritime Day theme places a strong focus on practical implementation across key areas of the IMO’s work, including:
• Safety and the adoption of new technologies
• Preparing shipping for decarbonization
• Tackling fraudulent ship registration and maritime fraud
• Facilitation, digitalization and resilience
• Cybersecurity and maritime security
• Protection of the marine environment beyond carbon emissions
Related Articles:
IMO 24/09 - World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice - Powering Maritime Excellence
World Maritime Day 2026: IMO Warns Shipping Rules Are Under Strain as Seafarers Face Deadly Attacks
4. BIMCO UPDATES:
1. BIMCO updates its open source eBL Standard to support the next stage of digital trade
On 22 September 2026, BIMCO announced the update of its electronic Bill of Lading Standard (eBL Standard) for the bulk shipping sector, supporting the industry’s transition from paper-based to digital trade documentation. The updated eBL Standard provides a structured dataset of 36 predefined data fields commonly used in bulk shipping bills of lading. By establishing a common industry standard, BIMCO aims to improve interoperability and support the wider adoption of electronic bills of lading.
For more information, please press the link.
Related Articles:
BIMCO 22/09 - BIMCO updates its open source eBL Standard to support the next stage of digital trade
2. BIMCO Symposium highlights need for global maritime security co-operation
On 21–22 September 2026, the BIMCO Maritime Security Symposium 2026 brought together representatives from the shipping industry, governments, navies, international organisations, law enforcement, academia and security providers at BIMCO House near Copenhagen. The symposium focused on key maritime security challenges, including geopolitical competition, the conflict in the Black Sea, maritime drug trafficking, security in the Red Sea and developments around the Strait of Hormuz.
Geopolitical competition: Geopolitical competition was a central theme throughout the discussions. Speakers examined how tensions between major powers are changing the operating environment for international trade and could affect shipping routes, markets and security planning in the years ahead.
Black Sea: In the Black Sea, the ongoing conflict has changed trading patterns and increased operational risks. Participants discussed how shipping companies can strengthen resilience, manage risks and maintain commercial operations as conditions continue to evolve.
Organised crime: The session on maritime drug trafficking highlighted the growing scale and complexity of organised crime. Criminal networks are increasingly dividing tasks and relying on specialised services from other groups rather than controlling the entire supply chain themselves. This makes criminal activity more difficult to identify and disrupt.
Red Sea: In the Red Sea, speakers discussed the continuing risks to commercial shipping, including piracy and attacks on vessels. They highlighted the importance of practical cooperation between the shipping industry and military forces to improve maritime security.
Strait of Hormuz: The closing session focused on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. Discussions covered regional security developments, the operational challenges facing shipping companies and the importance of reliable and timely information when making decisions about vessels operating in the area.
The key message from the symposium was that, as maritime security threats continue to evolve, shipping companies need to remain prepared, regularly test their resilience and maintain strong cooperation with governments, military forces, law enforcement agencies and security specialists.
Related Articles:
BIMCO 24/09 - BIMCO Symposium highlights need for global maritime security co-operation
5. At UN, 80 countries demand reopening of Hormuz, condemn Iran, Houthi attacks. US-Iran negotiations on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly
On 24 September 2026, 80 countries, including Gulf Arab states and major Western powers, called for the urgent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz at the UN General Assembly, which has commenced in New York on the 22nd September 2026. They also condemned attacks in the region and the disruption to international trade and energy security. Iran and the Houthis, however, have described their actions as defensive.
Against this backdrop, the Strait of Hormuz has become a key issue in the ongoing US-Iran negotiations in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. According to sources close to the talks, the two sides are exploring a phased arrangement under which Iran would allow navigation through the strait in return for the easing of US economic restrictions. Iran could also seek access to frozen assets as part of a broader agreement.
On Thursday, 24th September 2026, Iran has proposed a seven-day roadmap aimed at ending the war with the United States, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi outlining the plan to reporters. The proposal seeks to implement the conditions in the Memorandum of Understanding agreed by Washington and Tehran in June, including a halt to hostilities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Reportedly passed to Washington via mediators earlier this week, Iran’s proposal asks the US to meet specific conditions within seven days to restart ceasefire talks and end the blockade choking the strategically important strait.
However, the negotiations face a key obstacle, as neither side wants to give up its leverage first. Iran is seeking relief from economic pressure, while the US is seeking the restoration of freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway. President Donald Trump has said he remains open to negotiations but has also stressed that the US is in a strong negotiating position.
Meanwhile, the US midterm elections in November could influence the diplomatic process, although they are not a formal deadline for reaching an agreement. Iran is also preparing for the possibility of continued confrontation while maintaining that diplomacy remains an option. On Thursday, 24th September 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian suggested his government was willing to make a deal with the U.S. to end the war before Americans head to the polls this November.
“We don’t want it to get to the midterm elections,” Pezeshkian said in a brief meeting with NBC News and other news organizations on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. “We wish Americans to return to the MOU before the midterms,” Pezeshkian added.
Related Articles:
Attachment 1: Reuters 24/09 - At UN, 80 countries demand reopening of Hormuz, condemn Iran, Houthi attacks
Attachment 2: Reuters 24/09 - US and Iran discuss phased deal to reopen Hormuz and end US blockade, sources say
US and Iran hold first talks since June after Trump's 'annihilation' threat
Iran war: What did Pezeshkian achieve in New York?
Iran pitches seven-day roadmap to end conflict with US | US-Israel war on Iran News | Al Jazeera
Iran’s president says Tehran wants a deal with U.S. before midterm elections
6. Substantial agreement on EU-Philippines trade deal
On 22 September 2026, the European Union and the Philippines announced in a joint statement that they reached a substantial agreement in their negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted on Tuesday, 22ND September 2026, ″we just agreed on a free trade deal,″ however, EU officials later clarified that it was a preliminary agreement, and that a full deal would take further negotiations.
The agreement aims to strengthen economic ties between the EU and the Philippines and increase trade and investment between the two sides. The deal is expected to improve market access for exporters, service providers and investors, while further strengthening the EU’s economic engagement with the Philippines and the wider Indo-Pacific region.
According to the EU Commission, key benefits of the agreement include:
• Reduced tariffs and improved market access: The FTA will liberalise more than 94% of tariff lines, covering over 97% of bilateral trade. The Philippines, with a population of around 113 million, represents a significant market for EU exporters. Key EU exports include machinery and appliances, transport equipment, medicines and medical devices, as well as agrifood products such as pork, poultry, dairy products and spirits.
• Greater access to government procurement: The agreement will establish clear rules for government procurement and open the Philippine public procurement market to foreign bidders for the first time.
• Stronger intellectual property protection: The FTA will provide greater protection for intellectual property rights, including a significant number of EU geographical indications.
• Facilitation of digital trade: Clear rules will support digital trade while maintaining data privacy and consumer protection.
• Simpler and more transparent trade rules: Improved rules on sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical barriers to trade are expected to facilitate trade and reduce costs while maintaining high standards.
• Strong sustainability commitments: Human rights and the Paris Agreement will form essential elements of the agreement, alongside ambitious commitments on trade and sustainable development.
• Energy and raw materials: The agreement will establish transparent rules aimed at creating a level playing field and encouraging sustainable investment, particularly in renewable energy.
The EU's top trade negotiator, Maroš Šefčovič, said that he expects the Agreement to be finalized within a year or two. Parliaments on both sides will also need to ratify it.
Related Articles:
EU COMMISSION 22/09 - Substantial agreement on EU-Philippines trade deal
European Union strikes a new free trade deal with the Philippines - ABC News
PH, EU clinch ‘breakthrough’ in free trade talks | Inquirer Business
7. EU renews Russia sanctions
On Tuesday, 22nd September 2026, the EU agreed to extend sanctions on Russia in a compromise deal that will see oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman dropped from the blacklist.
Sanctions require unanimity among EU countries to be approved. Latvia ultimately abstained, diplomats said, which allowed the deal to pass. The decision was formally approved via a process known as a written procedure.
The agreement sees the EU's sanctions on some 3,000 other individuals and entities.
"The compromise will involve an extension of the regime for 36 months, until 22 September 2029," a spokesman for Ireland, which holds the EU's rotating presidency, said.
Furthermore, on the 24th September 2026, the European Council decided to adopt restrictive measures against Xenia Fedorova for her role in Russia's ongoing hybrid activities, and in particular for her involvement in foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI).
Related Articles:
Attachment 3: EU renews Russia sanctions, drops Russian billionaires Usmanov and Fridman | Reuters
EU to lift sanctions on Russian oligarchs Usmanov, Fridman - France 24
Ukraine anger as EU removes Russian oligarchs from sanctions list
8. U.S. strikes Greenland deal at UN
On Tuesday, 22nd September 2026, US President Donald Trump and the leaders of Greenland and Denmark signed a deal on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
The deal signed Tuesday would bar non-NATO nations, such as China and Russia, from establishing a military footprint in Greenland. It would also prohibit sensitive investments by non-allies. The agreement, according to a State Department official, establishes “permanent” guarantees that “only the U.S. and our allies can make sensitive investments in Greenland, eliminating the previous status quo in which adversaries have been investing in Greenland's sensitive sectors without investment screening.”
While many evaluate the military side of the new Greenland pact, shipping is also a sector that is greatly affected by the deal. Retreating sea ice has opened new shipping lanes and exposed mineral deposits across the Arctic, drawing the U.S., Russia and China to bolster their presence. New maritime routes are becoming increasingly viable between North America, Europe and Asia, with Greenland sitting right in the middle of this emerging Arctic transportation network.
That means the strategic value of Greenland could also include new shipping lanes, future ports and logistics hubs, faster access between major markets and the ability to protect critical Arctic trade routes.
Related Articles:
U.S. strikes Greenland deal at UN, expanding military presence
US and Denmark reach deal over Greenland's security after Trump threats
Trump's Deal With Denmark—and What It Means for Greenland's Sovereignty
Three things to know about Trump’s Greenland deal - Atlantic Council
9. Houthis promise not to target European ships
The Houthi group in Yemen have written to the EU to say they will not target European ships in the Red Sea.
In a recent letter to the EU’s foreign and security policy arm, the Houthis sought to reassure Europeans that the militants’ offensive along Yemen’s southern coast was not intended to disrupt international shipping, two diplomats briefed on the matter informed the Financial Times, on Friday, 25th September 2026.
They said it would not affect freedom of navigation through the Bab al-Mandeb, the diplomats said.
Related Articles:
10. US-China agree to extend port fee suspension to January 2027
On Wednesday, 23rd September 2026, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the two countries had agreed to extend the Busan Agreement from 10 November 2026 to 10 January 2027.
Bessent disclosed the extension after meeting Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and said Washington was seeking a broader economic and trade agreement with Beijing rather than a series of smaller arrangements.
He Yadong, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce, confirmed that the two sides discussed an extension, although a timeframe was not revealed. The two sides also discussed reciprocal tariff reductions as well as establishing councils for trade and investments. Several consensuses were reached, although the spokesperson did not provide details.
The announcement came ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington on the 24th September 2026. Neither Trump nor Xi mentioned specifically the maritime fees during their opening public statements at the White House summit on Thursday morning, focusing instead on mutual cooperation between the two superpowers.
The extension is considered particularly relevant to shipping because the Busan arrangements suspended reciprocal port charges introduced by the two countries as part of a broader dispute over maritime, logistics and shipbuilding practices.
For shipowners and operators, the extension provides additional certainty in the short term, particularly for vessels and services that could otherwise have faced higher port-related costs.
Related Articles:
US-China extend port fee suspension to January 2027 - SAFETY4SEA
Shipping urges Chinese vessel fee delay as Trump-Xi summit begins
US and China extend their trade truce to Jan. 10
INSIGHT: US, China will likely extend trade truce, open prospect for tariff cuts | ICIS
11. Ukraine Says It Is Ready for Black Sea Maritime Truce
On the 23rd September 2026, Ukraine said it is prepared to enter a maritime truce covering safe commercial navigation in the Black Sea, endorsing proposals put forward by Egypt, India and Turkey as attacks on merchant ships and ports intensify.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told leaders at the UN that Kyiv was ready to ensure safe shipping if Russia takes reciprocal de-escalation steps. Furthermore, Zelenskiy warned Moscow that Ukraine would strike back and make the coming winter deeply painful for Russia, if the two sides cannot agree a truce on energy attacks before the cold sets in.
Russia has not accepted the proposal for maritime truce; Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said separately that Moscow opposed a temporary pause in the wider fighting, although U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said both Russia and Ukraine had expressed interest in a more limited arrangement involving grain and energy targets.
On the 24th September 2026, Turkey reinforced the maritime push, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan calling attacks by both sides on commercial vessels unacceptable and urging action on Black Sea navigational safety.
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12. US TREASURY REPORT
The US Treasury Report for all actions reported is hereby attached.
Related Article:
Attachment 4: US Treasury Report for week 19/09/2026 – 25/09/2025
13. PIRACY REPORT
The Piracy Report for all actions reported is hereby attached.
Related Article:
Attachment 5: Worldwide Threat to Shipping (WTS) Report, for the period between 26/08/2026 – 23/09/2026
Nothing important to report from ECSA, IMO, ILO, Local News and the House of Representatives.