The International Maritime Pilots’ Association said deregulation and competition in maritime pilotage increase costs, weaken safety and efficiency, and create avoidable risks for the public and the shipping industry.
A Panama-flagged bulk carrier and a harbour tug both ended up aground off Hualien on 1 January 2026 after an engine failure and a fouled tow line in rough monsoon seas, underlining towage risks in heavy weather.
A Dutch-flagged general cargo ship, Minervagracht, was struck by an explosive device in the Gulf of Aden, causing a fire onboard and forcing the crew to evacuate. Two seafarers were injured, raising renewed concerns over maritime safety in the region.
