News Bulletin: March 2025
1. Slow Start for Alternative-Fuelled Vessel Orders in 2025, but LNG Bunkering Gains Momentum
In the first two months of 2025, the maritime industry witnessed a notable decline in orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, with only 45 new orders, a 35% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. February saw 34 of these orders, predominantly LNG-powered container ships, alongside a single ammonia-fuelled general cargo vessel. Notably, methanol-fuelled ship orders have yet to materialize this year, following 166 such orders in 2024. The downturn is largely attributed to a sluggish January in both traditional and alternative fuel vessel orders. However, February marked a resurgence, recording the highest monthly orders since October 2024. Additionally, there was a significant 50% increase in the LNG bunkering vessel orderbook, with eight new orders, underscoring the growing demand for LNG bunkering infrastructure.
Source: Seatrade Maritime
2. JNPA Records 9.14% Container Traffic Growth in February 2025
In February 2025, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) handled 616,164 TEUs, marking a 9.14% increase compared to February 2024. Total cargo for the month reached 7.56 million tonnes, a 2.09% year-on-year rise. From April 2024 to February 2025, JNPA managed 6,629,242 TEUs, reflecting a 13.6% growth over the previous fiscal year’s corresponding period. Additionally, during this timeframe, total cargo throughput was 83.85 million tonnes, up by 7.43%. The port also saw an increase in rail operations, handling 6,164 container rakes and 978,130 TEUs, compared to 5,864 rakes and 935,503 TEUs in the prior year, underscoring JNPA’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and supporting India’s maritime trade expansion.
Source: Maritime Gateway
3. India and UAE Advance Discussions on India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
A high-level Indian delegation, led by T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, engaged in substantive talks with Abu Dhabi Ports CEO Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. The discussions, which included stakeholders such as terminal operators, shipping lines, and customs officials, focused on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). This initiative, launched during the G-20 Summit in September 2023, aims to enhance transcontinental connectivity. Additionally, the Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI) platform, introduced during the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s visit to India in September 2024, seeks to integrate existing trade portals between India and the UAE, promoting seamless and paperless trade connectivity.
Source: Maritime Gateway
4. DP World and Mawani Inaugurate $800 Million State-of-the-Art Terminal in Jeddah
DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) have unveiled the South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, marking the completion of a three-year, $800 million expansion project. This development has more than doubled the terminal’s capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million TEUs, with plans to reach 5 million TEUs as demand grows. Enhancements include advanced automation, electrified yard cranes, and smart systems reducing gate transaction times to 10 seconds. The terminal now features a 2,150-meter quay with an 18-meter depth, accommodating up to five ultra-large container vessels simultaneously. Aligned with sustainability goals, initiatives aim to reduce CO₂ emissions by 50% over the next five years.
Source: India Shipping News
5. A.P. Moller-Maersk Commits $5 Billion to Enhance India’s Ports and Logistics Infrastructure
A.P. Moller-Maersk has announced plans to invest approximately $5 billion in India’s ports, terminals, and landside infrastructure. Key initiatives include expanding the Pipavav terminal and developing a container terminal at the upcoming Vadhavan Port. The company aims to streamline supply chains by integrating transportation, port handling, warehousing, and distribution services. This investment underscores Maersk’s commitment to supporting India’s growing economy and enhancing its global trade connectivity.
Source: India Shipping News
6. Event: Eka Infra Champions ‘Safety First’ During National Road Safety Month
Eka Infra participated in National Road Safety Month 2025 with the theme “Safety First – Every Journey Matters.” The initiative included a Toolbox Talk, Road Safety Presentation, and a Treasure Hunt Game to reinforce key safety principles. Through these interactive activities, Eka Infra emphasized its commitment to fostering a culture of road safety within the organization and beyond.
Source: Eka Infra
