OceanSphere NETWORK · Maritime Signal

Regulation & Class

Reports, port developments and industry updates from the maritime industry.
US Treasury sanctions ten Ecuadorian fishing vessels tied to cocaine trafficking
Regulation & Class

US Treasury sanctions ten Ecuadorian fishing vessels tied to cocaine trafficking

The United States has blocked a fleet of ten boats operating out of Manta, accusing them of moving thousands of kilos of cocaine each month for Mexican cartels.

22 Aug 2026
US FMC chair backs LNG and bio‑LNG in IMO net‑zero framework Regulation & Class

US FMC chair backs LNG and bio‑LNG in IMO net‑zero framework

The article details the Federal Maritime Commission’s position on LNG and bio‑LNG, its impact on the IMO Net‑Zero Framework and what upcoming meetings.

21 Aug 2026
ClassNK joins consortium to certify AI‑driven voyage optimisation savings Regulation & Class

ClassNK joins consortium to certify AI‑driven voyage optimisation savings

The new partnership will test an Evergreen vessel equipped with Samsung’s autonomous system, measuring real‑world bunker cuts and GHG reductions under.

21 Aug 2026
Japan proposes less stringent GFI targets in IMO talks Regulation & Class

Japan proposes less stringent GFI targets in IMO talks

Japan suggests easing greenhouse gas fuel intensity (GFI) reduction targets and replacing the Net-Zero Fund, aiming for a compromise at IMO discussions.

16 Aug 2026
Germany launches funding programme for green inland shipping
Regulation & Class

Germany launches funding programme for green inland shipping

Germany has opened a €70 million funding programme to support zero- and low-emission inland vessels, aimed at reducing emissions in the transport sector.

15 Aug 2026
Congress moves to overturn California’s shipping waivers, impacting ports and businesses
Regulation & Class

Congress moves to overturn California’s shipping waivers, impacting ports and businesses

New US resolutions target key California regulations, potentially disrupting port operations and investments.

11 Aug 2026
Shadow fleet tanker master jailed for 10 months after US Coast Guard chase
Regulation & Class

Shadow fleet tanker master jailed for 10 months after US Coast Guard chase

Georgian captain Avtandil Kalandadze sentenced to federal prison following weeks-long Atlantic pursuit, marking a significant maritime sanctions enforcement case.

10 Aug 2026
Taiwan criticises China's shipping controls in Strait
Regulation & Class

Taiwan criticises China's shipping controls in Strait

Taiwan expresses concerns over China’s maritime restrictions amid Typhoon Dolphin, highlighting tensions.

10 Aug 2026
UK announces first Russian sanction package
Regulation & Class

UK announces first Russian sanction package

The new UK government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham has launched its initial sanctions against Russia, targeting shipping and energy sectors.

09 Aug 2026
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