Maritime Industry Briefing: Ammonia Waste, Iron Ore Exports, and Shipping Congestion

## Ammonia Ship Waste Concerns Raised by NGOs A group of environmental organizations, including the Environmental Defense Fund and Seas at Risk, have urged the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to take a precautionary approach to managing toxic ammonia effluent from ammonia-fueled ships. In a letter to the IMO, the NGOs stated that 'dilution is not a solution' and called for onboard retention and port offload of ammonia waste rather than direct discharge into the ocean. 'Ammonia is highly toxic to marine life, even at low concentrations,' the letter explains. 'With the anticipated growth in ammonia-powered vessels, we are concerned about the potential environmental impact of direct ammonia discharge.' The groups are advocating for the IMO to develop clear guidelines and regulations to ensure proper handling and disposal of ammonia waste from ships. ## Brazil's Iron Ore Exports Continue Decline Seaborne iron ore exports from Brazil, the world's second-largest exporter, have maintained a downward trend over the past year, according to analysis from shipbroker Banchero Costa. In 2025, global seaborne iron ore trade was generally positive, but Brazil's exports saw a decline. This trend continued into the first month of 2026, the broker noted. The reduction in Brazilian iron ore exports is attributed to a combination of factors, including operational challenges, weather disruptions, and softer demand from key markets like China. As the world's largest iron ore consumer, China's slowing economic growth has impacted global trade flows of the crucial steelmaking raw material. ## Shipping Congestion Persists in Key Trade Lanes Recent freight market data indicates a pause in the rally of shipping rates, though congestion remains a concern in major trade corridors. According to analysis from Hellenic Shipping News, the Arabian Gulf and West Africa regions continue to experience elevated levels of vessel queuing and delays. 'Freight levels remain supported by constrained tonnage supply, particularly in core export regions,' the report states. 'However, near-term direction will depend on fresh cargo flow and overall market activity.' The persistence of congestion in strategic shipping hubs underscores the ongoing supply chain challenges facing the global maritime industry. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments in these key trade lanes in the coming months.