Geopolitics

A new free trade agreement between the EU and Mexico has been finalized, offering duty-free access for most goods.

Iran's IRGC has warned the US of "legitimate and definite" retaliatory strikes if a ceasefire is violated, escalating Middle East tensions

New recommendations have been issued by maritime organizations to improve safety for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz

Russia's grain exports to Africa hit record highs in 2025, establishing the nation as a dominant food supplier

Copper futures dropped below $6.4 per pound due to increased Middle East uncertainty impacting inflation and interest rates

Soybean futures declined below $11.90 per bushel due to global trade uncertainty and geopolitical developments.

Geopolitical shifts are increasingly impacting global shipping, with maritime chokepoints and trade weaponization becoming central concerns

Maersk will apply a 5% fuel surcharge on inland export and import routes starting May 27, 2026.

Brent crude futures saw a significant rise after US military strikes in Iran heightened oil market anxieties

US forces carried out defensive strikes in southern Iran, targeting boats and missile sites amidst regional tensions

A potential maritime clash was reported near Bandar Abbas, Iran, while ceasefire negotiations are reportedly advancing

The EU is transforming its LNG shipping market to lessen dependence on Russian gas, impacting global trade flows

Iran expanded its Persian Gulf Security Area to the UAE coast, amidst diplomatic efforts and US enforcement in Hormuz

LNG and crude tankers are departing the Strait of Hormuz, heading to Asian destinations after regional tensions caused delays

The UAE is creating a new logistics corridor to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, driven by regional tensions and port strategy shifts

Global Ship Lease (GSL) reported strong Q1 2026 earnings, benefiting from high charter coverage and resilient containership demand

Rhenus and Maersk are expanding land routes in the Gulf, adding Jordan corridors and surcharges due to Strait of Hormuz disruptions

A Chinese coast guard vessel has left the vicinity of the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands after a tense standoff

A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to the largest global energy supply shock in decades

Polish shipowners have joined the International Chamber of Shipping as Poland expands its Baltic Sea port capacity and offshore wind…

Iran's new map claiming control over the Strait of Hormuz is worsening conditions for stranded seafarers in the Gulf

CMA CGM's Q1 revenue reached $13.23 billion, reflecting a resilient performance amidst a complex global shipping landscape

The Port of Los Angeles saw a 30% increase in loaded imports in April, driven by spring and summer goods

The European Commission has approved a €13 million French aid scheme for fishing companies affected by rising fuel costs

INTERCARGO has issued an advisory to members regarding the escalating security situation in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf waters

Russia's shadow oil tanker fleet is reportedly engaged in hybrid warfare, including sabotage and surveillance in European waters

Conflict in the Strait of Hormuz has led to increased Panama Canal transits, driven by higher US energy exports

Iran is reportedly exploring the possibility of imposing tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz

INTERCARGO's Chair offered insights on dry bulk shipping challenges, emphasizing efficiency amidst global instability.

US oil sanctions relief is driven by Strait of Hormuz vulnerabilities, not a change in Russia policy