Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) has received authorisation as a recognised organisation from Iran’s maritime administration – Ports and Maritime Organisation.

Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) is a launching a new service that connects the French port of Le Havre with Iranian, Middle Eastern and Asian ports.

Following its re-entrance into the Iranian market three months ago, Maersk Line has added another feeder call from the UAE by taking slots from Interworld Shipping Agency.

Industry insiders fear opportunities for the tanker and offshore sectors in Iran will remain stalled until after the country goes to the polls in May but it is a more pressing presidential election that really has shipping on edge.



A leading, Dubai-based consultant to the offshore marine energy sector has warned the offshore industry not to expect Iran to offer a quick fix to the sector’s global woes.

Iran must take the initiative to facilitate trade or risk losing huge foreign investment opportunities opened up by the lifting of nuclear sanctions in January.

Genoa-based Fratelli Cosulich will start physical bunker supply operations in Bandar Abbas, Iran in early 2017, materialising a joint venture business with Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL).

Iran says 240 foreign-flagged tankers have docked at its southern Kharg oil terminal since the lifting of international sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

Iran's Shahid Rajaee Port Authority, which controls Bandar Abbas port, and Belgium's Antwerp Port Authority have signed a memorandum of understanding to further develop trade between the two regions.

ClassNK is returning to Iran re-opening its Tehran office this week.