Effective from 1 May 2024, the latest amendment to MARPOL Annex VI, Appendix V “Information to be included in the bunker delivery note”, brings changes to the documentation requirements on bunker delivery notes (BDN).
China MSA and other Chinese authorities regularly issue alerts and circulars on hazards pertaining to shipping and related operations. Our correspondents and contacts in China continue to provide valuable advice through their circulars on these issues, which are compiled here for ease of access.
Regional conflicts in the Middle East raises the security risk to merchant shipping, in particular vessels transiting the Red Sea and GoA.
Following the renewed intensification of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the Iran-backed Yemeni Houthis continue to target vessels transiting the southern Red Sea, Bab-al-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden.
EU Naval Force ATALANTA has issued an update on the piracy threat off the coast of Somalia, following an increased number of reported incidents.
Ships sailing off the coast of Somalia, in the Somali basin are urged to maintain a heightened state of vigilance in light of the recent escalation in piracy threats. It is strongly recommended that all vessels adhere to the Best Management Practices Version 5 (BMP5), paying special attention to the drill of security measures before sailing off Somali coasts.