JUPITER SEA & AIR SERVICES PVT. LTD, EGMORE – CHENNAI, INDIA.

 

E-MAIL : Robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in   Mobile : +91 98407 85202

 

 

Corporate News Letter for Wednesday  July  29,  2026

Today’s Exchange Rates

CURRENCY▲	PRICE	CHANGE	%CHANGE	OPEN	PREV.CLOSE
USD/INR	95.85	0.040001	0.041715	95.76	95.89
EUR/USD	1.1363	-0.0006	-0.052773	1.1369	1.1369
GBP/INR	127.3004	-0.533699	-0.417493	127.3868	127.8341
EUR/INR	108.8572	-0.422401	-0.386533	108.9705	109.2796
USD/JPY	163.892	0.141998	0.086717	163.75	163.75
GBP/USD	1.3284	-0.0005	-0.037622	1.3289	1.3289
JPY/INR	0.5849	-0.001	-0.170675	0.5857	0.5859

///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Sets New Record with Widest Container Vessel Ever Handled

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port) has achieved another operational milestone with the successful handling of M.V. MSC SILVIA at Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal (DBGT), Berth No. 8, marking the widest container vessel ever handled at the terminal.

The vessel berthed on 19 July 2026 with a record beam (width) of 48.20 metres, demonstrating DBGT's capability to efficiently accommodate larger mainline container vessels.

The achievement underscores the port's growing operational strength and readiness to handle next-generation container ships. M.V. MSC SILVIA, measuring 300 metres in Length Overall (LOA) and having a capacity of 9,411 TEUs, arrived from Port of Onne, Nigeria, further reinforcing Tuticorin's expanding role as a key gateway in global maritime trade.

The successful handling of the vessel reflects the V.O. Chidam-baranar Port Authority’s continued investments in port infra-structure, operational efficiency and capacity enhancement to support increasing container traffic and larger vessel calls.

The Port Authority acknowledged MSC line for its continued confidence in the port and expressed gratitude to the EXIM trade community, the shipping fraternity and the team at Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal for their collective efforts and commitment in achieving this landmark milestone.

The record setting call further strengthens V.O.Chidambaranar Port’s position as one of India’s leading container gateways, capable of handling larger vessels while supporting the country’s growing international trade.

Hapag-Lloyd Resumes India Gulf Service 1 Bookings, Strengthens Upper Gulf Connectivity

Hapag-Lloyd AG has resumed bookings on its revamped India Gulf Service 1 (IG1), reinforcing trade connectivity between the Indian Subcontinent and the Upper Gulf following the reopening of cargo bookings to and from the region without transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

The renewed service is designed to provide reliable connectivity for shippers moving cargo between India, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, supporting regional trade flows and supply chain resilience.

Under the revised network, the India Gulf Service 1 (IG1) will operate on the following rotation: Kandla (India) → Nhava Sheva (India) → Karachi (Pakistan) → Khorfakkan (United Arab Emirates) → Sohar (Oman) → Kandla (India).

The resumption of bookings comes as shipping lines continue to restore normal operations across the Gulf region following recent geopolitical disruptions. By offering services that avoid transiting the Strait of Hormuz, Hapag Lloyd aims to provide customers with greater operational certainty and uninterrupted cargo movement.

The revamped IG1 service is expected to enhance connectivity for importers and exporters across the Indian Subcontinent and the Gulf, facilitating the movement of containerised cargo through key regional trade hubs.

With the reopening of bookings, Hapag Lloyd continues to strengthen its regional network, ensuring dependable service options for customers while supporting growing trade demand between South Asia and the Middle East.

Turkey’s First Homebuilt LNG Boxship Begins India Service 

Turkey's first domestically built and largest LNG-powered container ship has commenced operations on the India trade route, marking a significant milestone for the country's shipbuilding industry and advancing cleaner maritime transport between Turkey and South Asia.

The vessel has been designed to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), offering lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency compared with conventionally powered ships.

Its deployment reflects the growing adoption of alternative fuels as the shipping industry works toward meeting stricter international environmental regulations and decarbonization targets.

The new box-ship will serve key ports on the India service, strengthening container connectivity and supporting the movement of manufactured goods, industrial cargo, consumer products, and other containerized freight.

The service is expected to provide shippers with greater capacity, improved schedule reliability and more sustainable transportation options.

As Turkey’s largest locally constructed LNG-powered container vessel, the ship showcases the country’s expanding capabilities in advanced commercial shipbuilding and green maritime tech-nologies. The project also underscores the increasing investment by shipping companies in modern, environmentally friendly fleets.

Industry experts believe the vessel’s entry into the India trade lane will continue to lower greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing operational efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. LNG powered ships continue to play an important transitional role as the global shipping sector moves towards low and zero-carbon fuels.

The launch of the service further strengthens maritime trade links between Turkey and India, while demonstrating the grow-ing importance of sustainable shipping solutions in supporting international commerce and resilient global supply chains.

Saudi Oil Tankers to India, China Reverse Course After Houthi Threat

Several Saudi oil tankers bound for India and China reportedly reversed course in the Red Sea following renewed security threats from Yemen's Houthi rebels, highlighting the continuing risks to one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes.

The vessels altered their routes after concerns escalated over potential attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, prompting ship operators to prioritize crew safety and the security of cargo.

The move reflects heightened caution among tanker owners as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt maritime operations in the region. The Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait serve as vital corridors for global energy shipments, linking the Middle East with Asia and Europe .

Any disruption along these routes can lead to longer voyages, higher fuel consumption, increased insurance premiums and rising freight costs for oil and other commodities.

India and China are among the world’s largest importers of Saudi crude oil, making the security of shipping lanes through the Red Sea strategically important for both countries’ energy supplies. Shipping companies have increasingly reviewed voyage plans and risk assessments in response to evolving security conditions.

Industry analysts said prolonged instability in the region could force more tankers to divert around the Cape of Good Hope, significantly extending transit times and increasing transport-ation costs. Such re-routing could also tighten tanker availability and place additional pressure on global freight markets.

The latest incident underscores the continued impact of regional threats on global energy supply chains, with shipping companies closely monitoring developments while coordinating with naval forces and maritime security agencies to ensure the safe passage of vessels through the region.

Incheon Port Boosts Focus on India and Malaysia Cargo

Incheon Port is stepping up efforts to increase container traffic from India and Malaysia as part of its strategy to strengthen trade links with key Asian markets and expand its role as a major logistics gateway in Northeast Asia.

The port authority is actively engaging with shipping lines, logistics companies, and cargo owners to attract additional container volumes from the two countries. The initiative aims to capitalize on growing trade, manufacturing activity, and supply chain diversification across the region.

India and Malaysia are emerging as important trading partners for South Korea, with increasing demand for the movement of manufactured goods, automotive components, electronics, chemicals, machinery, consumer products, and other containerized cargo.

Incheon Port expects stronger connectivity with these markets to support sustained cargo growth. The Port is highlighting its modern container handling facilities, efficient customs procedures and extensive multimodal transport network to position itself as a preferred gateway for cargo destined for South Korea and onward markets in North East Asia.

Officials said expanding services from India and Malaysia will improve shipping connectivity, offer greater flexibility for exporters and importers and strengthen the resilience of regional supply chains. The strategy also aligns with broader efforts to diversify cargo sources and capture new trade opportunities in Asia.

By enhancing its focus on India and Malaysia, Incheon Port aims to increase container throughput, deepen commercial partnerships and reinforce its positions as a competitive hub for international container shipping and logistics.

Qatar Loosens Shipping Curbs Near Hamad Port

Qatar has eased navigation restrictions for vessels operating near Hamad Port, signalling an improvement in maritime conditions following heightened security measures in the region.

The move is expected to facilitate smoother vessel movements and support uninterrupted cargo operations at the country's primary commercial port.

The relaxation of shipping curbs allows greater operational flexibility for commercial vessels while maintaining essential safety protocols.

Port authorities continue to monitor the security environment closely and remain prepared to implement additional measures should the situation change.

Hamad Port is a key gateway for Qatar's international trade, handling containerized cargo, bulk commodities, vehicles, and general cargo. Easing navigation restrictions are expected to improve vessel scheduling, reduce waiting times and enhance supply chain efficiency for shipping lines and cargo owners.

The development comes as regional maritime stakeholders seek to restore normal shipping operations following recent tensions that prompted tighter navigation controls across parts of the Gulf. Shipping companies are expected to benefit from improved route planning and more predictable port operations.

Industry experts noted that the easing of restrictions could help stabilize freight movements through the region, particularly for trade linking the Gulf with Asia, Europe and Africa. It may also reduce operational costs associated with delays and route adjustments.

The decision reflects Qatar’s commitment to maintaining the safe and efficient flow of maritime trade while ensuring the security of vessels and port infrastructure. Hamad Port is expected to continue playing a vital role in supporting regional logistics and global supply chains as shipping activity normalizes.

Bangladesh Advances $1 Billion Shipbuilding Hub Project

Bangladesh has taken a major step toward strengthening its maritime manufacturing sector by advancing plans for a $1 billion shipbuilding hub aimed at expanding domestic production capacity and boosting exports.

The proposed hub is expected to serve as a modern shipbuilding and ship repair complex, equipped with advanced infrastructure to support the construction of commercial vessels, specialized ships, and offshore platforms.

The project forms part of the country's broader strategy to develop a globally competitive maritime industry. Officials said the investment will help attract both domestic and foreign investors while creating a dedicated ecosystem for shipbuilders, equipment manufacturers, and marine engineering companies.

The hub is also expected to promote technology transfer, innovation and the adoption of international shipbuilding standards.

Hanwha Ocean Wins $1.2 Billion Newbuild Order from Yang Ming

Hanwha Ocean has secured a $1.2 billion contract from Taiwanese container shipping line Yang Ming Marine Transport to build a new series of container vessels, reinforcing the South Korean shipbuilder's strong position in the global commercial shipbuilding market.

The order covers the construction of a fleet of next-generation boxships designed to enhance Yang Ming's operational efficiency, fleet competitiveness, and environmental performance.

The new vessels are expected to feature fuel-efficient designs and advanced technologies that comply with evolving international emissions regulations.

///                   Air Cargo News            ///

ARIG Welcomes Maersk Air Cargo as New Member

The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) has welcomed Maersk Air Cargo as its newest member, strengthening the association's representation of the air cargo industry and expanding collaboration on key operational and regulatory issues affecting the sector.

By joining BARIG, Maersk Air Cargo will participate in industry initiatives focused on improving operational efficiency, reducing regulatory burdens, and addressing rising costs facing airlines and cargo operators.

The membership also provides the carrier with a platform to engage with policymakers, airport authorities, and other aviation stakeholders on matters impacting air freight operations.

SCAT Airlines to Launch Dedicated Freighter Operations

Boeing and SCAT Airlines have signed an agreement to convert a Boeing 767-300ER into a Boeing Converted Freighter, marking the airline’s entry into dedicated cargo operations. The agreement was announced at the Farnborough International Airshow, where the two companies said the converted aircraft would support SCAT Airlines’ plans to launch both general cargo and express freight services.

The addition of the 767-300BCF is expected to strengthen SCAT Airlines’ cargo capabilities and expand its presence in the regional and international air freight market. Kazakhstan is accelerating efforts to develop its air cargo sector, positioning the country as a strategic hub for regional freight operations.

With airlines expanding cargo services to major cities across the nation, demand for medium wide-body freighters in Central Asia is continuing to rise. As one of Kazakhstan’s leading carriers, SCAT Airlines is expected to be well placed to enter the freighter market through the operation of the Boeing 767-300BCF.

TAC Index The aircraft’s range and payload capabilities will enable the airline to meet growing demand for e-commerce and general freight traffic connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. SCAT Airlines will also become the first carrier in Kazakhstan to operate the 767-300BCF, marking a significant milestone for the country’s aviation cargo industry. The Boeing 767-300BCF is an efficient medium wide-body twin-engine converted freighter capable of carrying up to 57 tonnes and flying up to 3,345 nautical miles.

It offers a total cargo volume of 15,692 cubic feet, with the main deck accommodating 24 pallet positions and providing 11,884 cubic feet of capacity. The lower deck adds 3,378 cubic feet of cargo space, along with an additional 430 cubic feet in the bulk compartment.

Denisov, President of SCAT Airlines, said, “With southern Kazakhstan’s hub potential, established partners in China, Turkey and Europe, and Boeing performing the 767-300BCF conversion, this long-term program directly supports the task set by the President of Kazakhstan to establish the country as a leading Eurasian aviation hub.”

Lindsey Douglas, vice president of Cabin, Modifications, Maintenance & Digital Services for Boeing Global Services, said, “The 767-300BCF is a proven performer in the cargo industry, and we are confident it will continue to deliver value for many years to come.”

Etihad Cargo Boosts Freighter Services to Paris

Etihad Cargo has expanded its dedicated freighter operations to Paris, increasing cargo capacity and strengthening connectivity between Europe, the Middle East, and key global markets.

The enhanced freighter service is designed to meet rising demand for air cargo transportation, particularly for pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce shipments, automotive components, luxury goods, and other time-sensitive freight.

The additional capacity will provide customers with greater scheduling flexibility and improved supply chain reliability. Paris is one of Europe's leading air cargo gateways, serving as a major hub for international trade and logistics.

GE Aerospace wins new National Airlines engine order

GE Aerospace has secured a new engine order from National Airlines, further strengthening its long-standing partnership with the cargo carrier. The aerospace manufacturer announced that National Airlines has committed to purchase one GE90-110B engine and six CF6-80C2 engines to power its Boeing 777F and Boeing 747F freighter aircraft.

National Airlines already has extensive experience operating GE Aerospace engines, with its fleet including 30 CF6 engines and eight GE90 engines. The latest order reinforces the airline’s continued reliance on GE Aerospace propulsion systems for its cargo operations.

Mohamed Ali, President & CEO, GE Aerospace Commercial Engines & Services, said, “We’re thrilled that National Airlines continues to invest in our engines after recently purchasing eight GE90 engines. These additional engines will help National meet growing cargo demand and demonstrate their continued confidence in these aircraft-engine combinations.”

Also Read - Global air freight rates fall for fifth straight week: TAC Index The GE90 engine family powers all Boeing 777 models and serves as the exclusive powerplant for the Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, and Boeing 777 freighter variants.

The GE90 is known for several technological milestones, including carbon-fiber composite front fan blades and the world’s largest aircraft engine fan, measuring 128 inches in diameter. During certification testing, the engine also achieved a record-setting thrust level of 127,900 pounds.

National Airlines Chairman Chris Alf said, “Reliability, performance, and consistency are the foundation of successful air cargo operations, which is why National Airlines has built its freighter fleet around GE Aerospace engine technology. The addition of these CF6 and GE90 engines further strengthens our operational capability, ensuring we have the flexibility, capacity, and long-term resilience needed to support our customers’ evolving requirements for years ahead.”

GE Aerospace’s CF6 turbofan engine family powers nearly 70% of the world’s widebody cargo aircraft, underscoring its dominant role in global air freight operations. Since entering service more than 50 years ago, the CF6 engine has undergone continuous technological advancements, earning a strong reputation for dependability and durability.

According to GE Aerospace, these qualities help customers maintain an aircraft fleet that is ready for operation, supports on-time arrivals, and benefits from lower maintenance costs.

How ANA Cargo delivered Nikon's most precise semiconductor machine

Moving a shipment from one country to another is part of everyday business for an airline. But when the cargo is one of the most precise semiconductor machines ever built, the task becomes far more than a transport operation. It becomes a carefully planned mission where every detail matters.

That was the challenge facing ANA Cargo at the end of 2024, when it was entrusted with transporting a highly sensitive semiconductor exposure system from Japan to an industrial city in eastern Malaysia. The destination was outside ANA Cargo's scheduled network, requiring a dedicated charter flight, while the cargo itself demanded exceptional care because of its size, weight and sensitivity.

The project brought together ANA Cargo, Nikon and "K" Line Logistics, each playing a vital role in ensuring the equipment reached its destination safely.

TAC Index The shipment reflected the growing importance of eastern Malaysia as a manufacturing hub. Home to one of the country's largest industrial parks, the city has attracted manufacturers from around the world, driving demand for advanced semiconductor production equipment.

Nikon's exposure system was destined for one of these facilities, where it would be used to transfer circuit patterns onto silicon wafers for semiconductor production. According to Ryohei Itagaki, Logistics Department, Procurement and Logistics Sector, Production Technology Division of Nikon, the equipment presented unique transport challenges. "Semiconductor exposure equipment is an extremely large and sensitive precision machine," he said.

Measuring around three metres in length and weighing more than 30 tonnes, even the slightest impact could damage its internal components. The machine was also highly sensitive to temperature changes, with fluctuations potentially affecting the performance of its precision lenses or causing condensation that could compromise accuracy.

These requirements made air transport the preferred option, and Nikon selected ANA Cargo based on its experience in handling semiconductor equipment.

For Nikon, the operation reinforced confidence that even its most advanced equipment could be transported safely. Itagaki said the exposure system represented "the pride of Nikon's manufacturing" and expressed satisfaction with ANA Cargo's handling of such delicate cargo.

Fukami also praised the collaborative approach, saying the three organisations overcame challenges by discussing different options and responding flexibly throughout the project. The successful charter was more than the movement of a single shipment. I

t demonstrated how technical expertise, careful planning and close collaboration can overcome the challenges of transporting highly specialised cargo.

For ANA Cargo, Nikon and "K" Line Logistics, the project not only delivered one of the world's most delicate semiconductor systems safely to its destination but also strengthened a partnership built on trust, precision and a shared commitment to quality.

I hope you have enjoyed reading the above news letter.                                                    

Robert Sands

Joint Managing Director

Jupiter Sea & Air Services Pvt Ltd

Casa Blanca, 3rd Floor

11, Casa Major Road, Egmore

Chennai – 600 008. India.

GST Number : 33AAACJ2686E1ZS.

Tel : + 91 44 2819 0171 / 3734 / 4041

Fax : + 91 44 2819 0735

Mobile : + 91 98407 85202

E-mail : robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in

Website : www.jupiterseaair.com 1Branches  : Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Tuticorin.

Associate Offices : New Delhi, Kolkatta, Cochin & Hyderabad.

 

Thanks  to  :  Container  News,  Indian Seatrade, Cargo Forwarder Global  &  Air Cargo News.