International Maritime & Trade Finance Policy Council

Maritime Industry Breaking News – December 21, 2025 The U.S. Navy has seized two additional shadow fleet tankers in the Caribbean as part of President Trump's total blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil vessels. Over 50 tankers are now stalled, severely disrupting PDVSA exports. Meanwhile, Red Sea & Suez Canal traffic has returned to near pre-crisis levels after the Houthi pause in attacks, with major liners resuming Suez routes and reducing costs. Key Impacts: - Venezuela:

World Maritime News Roundup – December 21, 2025 Key global shipping stories this week: 1. Red Sea & Suez Canal: Transits return to near pre-crisis levels after Houthi pause. Major carriers (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM) resume Suez route, reducing transit times and costs. 2. Venezuela Tanker Blockade: U.S. Navy seizes two more shadow fleet vessels (latest: MT Pacific Glory, 1.2M barrels Merey crude). Over 40 tankers remain anchored, severely disrupting PDVSA exports. 3. China Ports D