South Korea's largest shipping company HMM Co has signed a KRW430 billion (US$309 million) contract with Brazil's Vale SA to transport iron ore over a 10-year period, reports Yonhap News.

Under the agreement, HMM will deploy five bulk carriers to move iron ore from April 2026 to March 2036 for Vale, the world's leading producer of iron ore and nickel.



The deal follows a 636 billion-won contract signed in May with Vale, as HMM seeks to secure stable bulk volumes to offset volatility in the container-shipping market.



A company spokesman said the long-term contracts will support growth and reduce exposure to fluctuations in container demand.



HMM currently operates 90 container carriers but plans to expand into bulk and roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessels for vehicle transport. The company aims to grow its bulk fleet from 50 to 110 vessels by 2030.



It also plans to add seven ro-ro ships by the end of next year. HMM exited the ro-ro segment in 2002 but re-entered earlier this month with the delivery of the first of the seven planned vessels.

Russia continues to export oil through a growing fleet of grey-market tankers that evade Western sanctions, helping fund its military operations in Ukraine, reportsm Kiev's Euromaidan Press.

The Kremlin's "shadow fleet" of oil tankers has expanded in 2025, allowing Moscow to maintain crude exports despite international restrictions. These vessels often operate without insurance, sail with transponders off, and conceal their identities.



Reuters reports that Russian oil remains a major revenue source, accounting for about 77.7 per cent of the federal budget this year. The exports primarily go to China, India and countries in the Global South.



About 70 per cent of Russia's shadow fleet passes through the Baltic Sea, where UK patrols have reportedly intercepted some vessels at key chokepoints.



Saad Rahim, chief economist at trading firm Trafigura, said the tankers are a vital tool for the Kremlin. He noted that the fleet has grown as sanctions have intensified, with new vessels replacing those blacklisted.



Mr Rahim added that US tariffs have had limited impact on global fuel demand. American oil firms continue to budget around a US$60 per barrel price, which is considered their break-even point.



Despite a decline in the number of active oil rigs in the US, production levels have remained stable, he said.

A commercial ship likely severed multiple undersea cables in the Red Sea, disrupting internet access across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, reported the Associated Press.

The International Cable Protection Committee said the incident occurred in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where 15 submarine cables pass between East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The damage highlights the vulnerability of global internet infrastructure.



Doug Madory of Kentik said the affected cables include South East Asia-Middle East-Western Europe 4, India-Middle East-Western Europe, FALCON GCX and Europe India Gateway. Initial reports suggest the cut happened off Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, though local authorities have not confirmed this.



John Wrottesley, operations manager at the committee, said dragged anchors from commercial ships cause around 30 per cent of cable damage annually, resulting in roughly 60 faults. The Red Sea's shallow depths make cables more susceptible to anchor-related incidents.



Mr Madory added that the working assumption is a vessel dropped anchor and dragged it across the cables. At least 10 countries, including India, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, experienced partial internet disruptions.



Internet providers typically reroute traffic through alternate paths, but this can lead to latency. Madory likened the situation to plumbing, where reduced flow limits capacity.



Cable security has become a growing concern amid attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. In early 2024, Yemen's exiled government claimed the Houthis planned to target undersea cables. Several were later cut, possibly by a ship damaged in an attack, though the rebels denied involvement.

Danish carrier Maersk Line has increased its intra-Asia capacity by 52 per cent, adding 100,000 TEU to reach 298,134 TEU in total deployed volume, reported UK's Seatrade Maritime News.

The expansion consolidates Maersk's second-place position in the regional trades, trailing only Cosco Shipping, which operates 300,491 TEU in the area.



Alphaliner's latest report highlighted that Maersk's Gemini Cooperation partner, Hapag-Lloyd, nearly doubled its capacity in August 2024, up 97 per cent. The alliance has expanded regional shuttle services to support its hub and spoke model.



Gemini-operated vessels average just over 2,900 TEU, compared to Cosco's 2,700 TEU. MSC operates the largest ships in the region, averaging 3,000 TEU.



Despite the capacity surge, intra-Asia freight rates have declined. Drewry Shipping Consultants reported a 2 per cent drop in its Intra-Asia Container Index in late August, with rates at US$582 per 40ft container - 35 per cent lower than August 2024.



Alphaliner noted the competitiveness of the intra-Asia market, with 69 carriers operating 2.4 million TEU, up 13 per cent year-on-year. The top 20 carriers control 87 per cent of the total capacity.



The Gemini alliance's capacity upgrade reflects the strategic importance of the region. Xeneta's chief analyst Peter Sand said more containers move within intra-Asia than any other global corridor.



Mr Sand added that since early 2023, an average of 3.95 million TEU per month was shipped between Far East ports, surpassing combined volumes to North America and Europe, which stood at 3.48 million TEU.



A Taiwan-based freight forwarder projected US container imports to fall 19-21 per cent year-on-year from September to December 2025, with a full-year decline of 5.6 per cent due to tariff-driven demand shifts.

England's Southern Water authority has banned water tankers from extracting supplies in drought-hit Hampshire after deliveries were used to help fill a lake on the Wiltshire estate of billionaire Stephen Schwarzman, reported BBC News.

Tankers were filmed by residents collecting water from standpipes in Andover, Hampshire, where a drought order is in place. The water was then transported to Conholt Park, an estate owned by Mr Schwarzman, just over the border in Wiltshire, which is not under drought restrictions.



A spokesman for Mr Schwarzman confirmed a small portion of the water was used to fill a newly constructed lake, stating it was sourced through licensed providers and primarily intended for irrigation. The estate is undergoing extensive redevelopment following its GBP80 million (US$108 million) purchase in 2022.



Southern Water said the water extraction was legal under current rules, as construction use is not covered by domestic drought restrictions. However, managing director Tim McMahon said he was "appalled" and imposed an immediate ban on tanker access to standpipes.



The company, which serves over two million customers, was alerted by locals who tracked tanker movements. Laurence Leask, an air conditioning inspector, said he had followed tankers at 03:00 BST and estimated up to 30 tankers a day, equating to around one million litres daily.



Residents expressed outrage over the situation, citing the ongoing hosepipe ban. Trevor Marshall, who documented tanker traffic, said it was "incredibly outrageous" given local restrictions.



Southern Water said it would conduct a thorough review and tighten internal monitoring and legal loopholes. Blackstone, Mr Schwarzman's firm, denied any breach of regulations and said water was sourced from multiple locations, largely outside the region.

US container imports remained strong in August 2025 despite falling volumes from China and ongoing tariff uncertainty, reported LA-area's Global Trade.

American ports handled 2,519,722 TEU in August, down 3.9 per cent from July but 1.6 per cent higher than August 2024. It marked the second consecutive month above the 2.4 million TEU threshold that typically strains port infrastructure.



Transit delays at major US ports rose only slightly, indicating continued resilience in the face of elevated volumes and policy disruption.



Imports from China fell to 869,523 TEU in August, a 5.8 per cent month-on-month decline and 10.8 per cent below last year. Overall imports from the top 10 countries dropped 4.4 per cent, led by South Korea (down 11.8 per cent), Japan (down 14.5 per cent), and Taiwan (down 12.9 per cent). Only India and Indonesia posted gains.



For the first eight months of 2025, total US containerised imports are 3.3 per cent ahead of the same period last year, reflecting steady demand despite global trade volatility.



Jackson Wood, Director of Industry Strategy at Descartes, said the sustained import levels highlight the combined effects of tariff policy and seasonal factors. He noted that legal disputes over key tariff measures, now before the Supreme Court, are adding uncertainty for importers

Liberty Marine Corporation has been fined US$32,000 for a 2023 oil spill off the coast of Washington that released nearly 200 gallons into Puget Sound, reported The Cool Down.

The spill occurred aboard the Liberty Peace, a 58,000-ton car carrier anchored near Manchester. A crew member overfilled the waste oil service tank, causing oil to escape through a clogged vent and drain overboard via the rainwater system.



Washington's Department of Ecology said the incident was preventable. Crew members ignored safety protocols, failed to respond to alarms, and silenced one without taking corrective action. Safety equipment was found clogged and malfunctioning.



About 47 gallons were recovered from the ship's deck, but none of the oil that entered the Sound was retrieved. The contamination posed serious risks to the local ecosystem, which supports salmon, herring, orcas and other marine life.



While no immediate wildlife impacts were recorded, oil pollution can suffocate fish, poison mammals and disrupt food chains for years. The Sound is also vital to local communities and national defense, increasing the urgency for accountability.



Liberty Marine has 30 days to appeal the fine. The Department of Ecology stressed that the company's negligence must be addressed. Environmental groups are calling for stronger enforcement and improved shipboard technology to prevent future spills.



The case highlights the broader need to reduce reliance on dirty energy and support cleaner shipping practices. Some researchers are exploring natural solutions, while advocates urge individuals to back renewable energy and sustainable transport.

Shanghai-listed Jinjiang Shipping has placed orders for up to four new feeder containerships as it seeks to reinforce its intra-Asia operations, reports Singapore's Splash 247.

The carrier, controlled by Shanghai International Port Group, has committed to two firm 1,182 TEU vessels with options for two more. Delivery is scheduled by 2027.



SUMEC Marine has been named as the preferred shipyard, with Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry and Huanghai Shipbuilding listed as secondary options in the tender documents.



Each vessel will be 147.9 metres long, 23.25 metres wide, with a draft of 8.5 metres. They will feature a design speed of 18.5 knots and be equipped with 145 reefer plugs.



Jinjiang ranks as the 35th largest liner operator globally, according to Alphaliner, with a fleet of 51 ships totalling around 56,400 TEU. Of these, 26 are owned.



The company last ordered newbuilds in late 2021, acquiring two 1,900 TEU ships from Yangfan Zhoushan, delivered in 2024. The latest move follows improved profitability and continued expansion across Asia, South Asia and the Middle East.

Senior Chinese and US officials held back-to-back talks this week, laying the groundwork for a potential meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump, reported Bloomberg.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun that Washington does not seek confrontation or regime change in Beijing, according to a Pentagon statement. The call marked Dong's first direct contact with Mr Hegseth.



China's Defense Ministry said Admiral Dong urged a stable and open relationship, but warned that any effort to support Taiwan's independence would be unsuccessful. The exchange underscored tensions over the self-ruled island.



Hours later, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Rubio, who was sanctioned twice by Beijing before assuming office, stressed the need for "open and constructive communication" across a range of bilateral issues, according to the US read out.

Mexico will raise tariffs on cars imported from China and other Asian nations to 50 per cent, in a sweeping revision of trade duties aimed at shielding domestic jobs and appeasing Washington, reported Reuters.

The Economy Ministry said the new tariffs will apply across multiple sectors including steel, textiles and automotive, affecting US$52 billion worth of imports. The overhaul is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Mexico's industrial base.



Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Chinese cars currently face a 20 per cent tariff, but the government will raise this to the maximum permitted under international trade rules. "Without a certain level of protection, you almost can't compete," he told reporters.



Mr Ebrard added that the measures comply with World Trade Organization limits and are designed to counter the influx of Chinese vehicles priced below reference levels. He said the move was necessary to safeguard employment and ensure fair competition in Mexico's market.

DHL eCommerce has acquired a minority stake in Ajex Logistics Services, expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia's fast-growing parcel market, reported New York's FreightWaves.

The deal forms part of DHL Group's US$570 million Middle East expansion strategy, which includes its Express, Forwarding and Supply Chain divisions. Ajex is owned by Ajlan & Bros Holding Group.



DHL said the investment positions it to benefit from double-digit growth in Saudi Arabia's e-commerce sector, driven by a young, digitally native population and projected annual retail growth of 4.6 per cent through 2027.



Ajex began operations in 2021 and has built a network of over 60 facilities, 1,200 vehicles and 2,000 employees. All three figures have grown by 20 to 30 per cent since the start of the year.



DHL eCommerce said its global reach and logistics expertise will help Ajex customers access faster and more innovative delivery services across the Middle East.



Ajex CEO Mohammed Albayati said the partnership will power the region's e-commerce growth and improve service quality for customers.



DHL eCommerce will have representation on Ajex's management board and retains the option to increase its stake to a majority position in the future.

LATAM Cargo Group will begin weekly freighter flights between Brussels and Sao Jose dos Campos in Brazil from October 2, eliminating transshipment through other gateways and reducing logistics costs, reports London's Air Cargo News.

The Santiago-based carrier plans to double the frequency during the winter season. Each flight is expected to carry around 50 tonnes of cargo, including industrial goods, auto parts and consumer products, with most shipments destined for Sao Jose dos Campos.



Previously, cargo bound for the city had to transit through airports such as Guarulhos or Viracopos before continuing by land. The new direct route will shorten transit times and support LATAM's expansion of 15 additional weekly frequencies between Europe and South America.



Matias Cortina, commercial cargo director for Europe at LATAM Airlines Group, said the new route reinforces the airline's position as the most flexible cargo operator between the two continents. He highlighted Sao Jose dos Campos as a key industrial hub.



The airport lies in the Vale do Paraiba, Brazil's second-largest industrial cluster, near Sao Paulo's main production centres. LATAM also operates a Miami-Sao Jose dos Campos cargo service three times weekly, launched in 2023.



LATAM Airlines Group ranked among the top 25 cargo airlines in 2024, according to IATA. Growth in perishables, pharmaceuticals, automotives and electronics helped boost volumes on the Latin America-Europe corridor.



By the end of last year, LATAM operated 21 freighters, including 767-300Fs and 767-300P2Fs, as part of its strategy to expand capacity and improve service across key trade lanes.

Frankfurt Airport handled 174,388 tonnes of cargo in August 2025, marking a one per cent year-on-year increase, reported Mumbai's STAT Trade Times.

The figures, released by Fraport AG, show volumes were also 0.7 per cent higher than August 2019, underscoring the resilience of Europe's busiest air cargo hub amid shifting global trade conditions.



The steady growth reflects sustained demand across pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, perishables and e-commerce shipments, which continue to rely on air freight for speed and reliability.



Aircraft movements rose 6.4 per cent year-on-year to 42,946 takeoffs and landings, while total maximum takeoff weight reached 2.6 million tonnes, up 2.9 per cent. Increased bellyhold capacity from passenger flights and dedicated freighters supported cargo flows.



Frankfurt's central location and integration with road and rail networks reinforce its role as a multimodal logistics hub, ensuring uninterrupted supply chain connectivity across Europe and beyond.



Industry observers view the modest rise as a stabilising trend following years of volatility. The positive trajectory signals steady demand and a degree of market normalisation.



Fraport AG said cargo growth remains a key part of the Group's performance, with Frankfurt continuing to serve as a strategic gateway for time-critical global shipments.



The final quarter of 2025 will be closely watched, with seasonal trade cycles and year-end manufacturing demand expected to place additional pressure on air cargo networks. August's increase offers a measured sign of resilience.

Qatar Airways Cargo and Cainiao have launched an expanded strategic partnership to accelerate cross-border e-commerce delivery between China and Europe, reported London's AirCargo Week.

The long-term collaboration will see Cainiao more than double its weekly charter flights on key China-Europe routes, using Qatar Airways Cargo's global network and operational expertise to meet rising demand for fast and reliable logistics.



The agreement was formalised by Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, and Wan Lin, Chief Executive Officer at Cainiao, during the Cainiao Global Smart Logistics Summit in Hangzhou on 10 September. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani of Invest Qatar also attended.



The expanded flight schedule will offer merchants greater flexibility and support Chinese businesses seeking to grow internationally. The alliance aims to achieve global delivery within 72 hours and strengthen Sino-European trade flows.



Mr Drusch said China remains a key driver of global e-commerce and air cargo demand. He added that combining Qatar Airways Cargo's fleet and network with Cainiao's logistics leadership will deliver unmatched service and connectivity.



Mr Lin said the partnership reinforces Cainiao's commitment to world-class e-commerce logistics. He cited the company's 2023 launch of its Global 5-Day Delivery service as a benchmark and said the new alliance will enhance product competitiveness and resilience.



The collaboration reflects mutual trust and a shared vision for the future of global e-commerce. By expanding capacity and improving trade flows, the partnership is expected to generate economic value and set new standards in cross-border logistics.