Maritime in Minutes - February 2026 in review

Panama port battle, Hapag-Lloyd buys Zim, and VLCCs go bananas.These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of February, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.Listeners please note this episode was recorded the day prior to the US/Israel attack on Iran on 28 FebruaryHear more about:Panama declares CK Hutchison’s Panama Ports concession unconstitutionalCK Hutchison: Panama terminal takeover ‘unlawful’, ceases operationsSix-year jail sentence for Solong captainContainer lines’ Red Sea mixed messages confuse shippersSeaLead plummets in shipping line rankingsHapag-Lloyd’s acquisition of Zim an era defining momentTrump’s Maritime Action Plan floats foreign built vessel US port feeGemini shines as container line punctuality plummets in 2026Red hot VLCC market hits new highs amid US – Iran tensionsReward offered for ‘missing’ dark fleet VLCCListen to the full episode now