Look back over 2019 and ahead to 2020 with Shoreline CEO Captain Thomas Brown

The escalating conflict between the U.S. and Iran is having a profound impact on the shipping and maritime insurance industries, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz—a key global transit point for oil shipments. With attacks on vessels becoming more frequent and insurers reevaluating war risk coverage, the situation in the region remains fluid and unpredictable.

As premiums rise and operational disruptions continue, shipowners and operators must closely monitor developments to understand how these changes might affect their operations and the safety of their crews. At ShorelineHudson, we’ve analyzed the latest industry updates and compiled a comprehensive opinion piece on the implications of the ongoing conflict for shipping and insurance.

In a direct response to the United States’ Section 301 Port Fee measures targeting Chinese-linked maritime interests, China has announced the imposition of Special Port Service Fees on vessels deemed to be “linked to the United States.” The fees, introduced by China’s Ministry of Transport on 10 October, took effect on 14 October 2025.

Cyberattacks on the maritime sector have risen over 400% since 2020. To help shipowners get ahead of the threat, ShorelineHudson is offering a limited number of shipowners the chance to participate in the CYFAX+ Maritime Cyber Research Project – in partnership with the U.S. Maritime Cyber Institute and Beacon Technologies. Participation is free!