The debate currently raging over the use of open-loop scrubbers to meet the requirements of the IMO’s 2020 0.5% sulphur cap for marine fuel represents a massive own goal by the industry - from both a PR and global regulatory perspective.

The expanded Panama Canal saw container trade switching from the US West Coast calls, with landbridge connections inland, to calls on the East Coast, however, higher fuel costs associated with the IMO’s 2020 sulphur cap could drive up to 1.2m teu...

UK-based Cleanship Solutions announced that it has clinched a scrubber retrofit project for an unnamed vessel operator for over 30 containerships with capacity ranging from 7,500 teu to 15,000 teu.

LNG projects and scrubber retrofits boosted Keppel Offshore & Marine's Keppel (O&M) orderbook last year as it sees growing optimism for the sector as whole.

London-based Greek shipowners have urged the IMO to bring together oil companies, marine equipment makers and classification societies to guarantee fuels created to comply with 2020 environmental rules do not damage engines and cause accidents.

The Port of Fujairah has become the latest major port to ban the use of open-loop scrubbers in its waters.

Bunker supplier Monjasa is bringing the Panama-flagged- 2010-built and 8,800 dwt tanker, Accra, to complement its Panama Canal bunker fleet.

Bunker delivery note (BDN) amendments relating to supply of marine fuels to ships with alternative mechanisms to address sulphur emission requirements have entered into force on 1 January 2019, IMO said.

The enforcement of the IMO’s 2020 low sulphur regulations will have a “crucial bearing” on the success of the maritime transport industry according to MOL chief Junichiro Ikeda.

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (ICE) is planning to launch a new marine fuel 0.5% futures contracts early next year in advance of IMO’s global 0.5% sulphur cap regulation from 2020.