Seatrade Maritime News Podcast

Panama plays a pivotal role in global logistics and the maritime sector is a major contributor to the country’s economy.
In this episode, recorded at CMA Shipping, Emma Howell from Seatrade Maritime News speaks with Rene Gomez, the President of the Maritime Chamber of Panama, about the vital role of the country in global logistics and maritime infrastructure.
Rene and Emma discuss the economic impact of the maritime sector, environmental initiatives, and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.
Discover how the Chamber is working to improve regulations, educate the workforce, and tackle environmental challenges while promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
Hear more about
An overview of the Maritime Chamber
Economic impact of maritime infrastructure
Environmental challenges and initiatives
Panama's role in global logistics
The future of maritime regulations
Lessons learned post-pandemic

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In this latest episode of the Seatrade Maritime News Podcast we explore the complex landscape of marine travel amidst rising airfares, cancelled flights, and crew stranded in conflict zones.
Join Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News, as he speaks with Vivian Miranda, Vice President at BCD Travel, about the challenges faced by seafarers with the war in Iran.
The discussion examines how to ensure safe and efficient crew travel both in the Gulf region and globally given the impact the conflict has had on the travel industry. The conversation also covers higher costs due to increased fuel prices and reduced flights and how best to manage these when it comes to crew travel.
Marcus and Vivien also touch on the role of technology combined with the personal service and advice, and what lies ahead in uncertain geopolitical times.
Hear more about:
The current challenges in crew travel
The impact of the Middle East crisis
Travel logistics and cost implications
Comparing current disruptions to Covid-19
Future planning in marine travel
The blend of technology and human interaction
Advice for those in crew travel roles

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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.
Connect with Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News:
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

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In this episode, we sit down with Liz Schmidt, the Executive Director of Women Offshore, to discuss the vital role of women in the maritime industry.
In conversation with Emma Howell from Seatrade Maritime Liz shares the inspiring journey of Women Offshore, from its inception as a podcast and blog in 2017 to its evolution into a non-profit organisation advocating for women in maritime
We delve into the impact of the Midshipman X scandal, the Safer Seas Act, and the ongoing challenges women face at sea.
Liz also highlights the organization's initiatives for career development and mentorship, and the importance of expanding support for women globally.
The conversation covers:
An overview of Women Offshore
The Midshipman-X scandal
The Safer Seas Act
Career development initiatives
Mentorship programmes
Global expansion plans
Collaboration with other organisations
The importance of diversity in maritime

Listen to the full episode now to learn more
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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.
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Shipping under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, the impact of tanker rates and the global economy, and Somali piracy making an unwelcome comeback.
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 April, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.
Hear more about:
Global trade and growth to slow due to Hormuz closure, warns UNCTAD
VLCC loadings in Yanbu soar due to Hormuz disruption
Under fire in the Strait of Hormuz – a firsthand account
Hengli Heavy Industry secures 108 newbuilding orders in Q1
US blockade of Iranian ports comes into force
IEA cuts oil outlook on ‘largest disruption in history’
Three container ships come under fire from Iran in Hormuz
Global maritime system becoming contested and under threat warns Singapore
Is the tide turning against US opposition to the IMO NZF?
Somali piracy warning as second ship hijacked
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.
For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com
Connect with Marcus Hand:
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Connect with Gary Howard:
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

As the world's critical waterways come into sharp focus, the Panama Canal is in the middle of one of the most ambitious transformation phases in its history.
In this episode, recorded at CMA Shipping 2026, Seatrade Maritime News Correspondent Gary Howard speaks with Dr. Ricaurte Vásquez, Administrator of the Panama Canal, about how the waterway is adapting to climate pressures, growing trade volumes, and the energy transition.
They discuss:
Lessons learned from the recent drought and new plans for water security, including a major new reservoir project
The vision for an LPG energy corridor and pipeline handling ethane, propane, and butane between the Atlantic and Pacific
The development of new container terminals and a cross-isthmus road, and how these projects fit into a wider logistics ecosystem
How the Canal is shifting from simply moving ships to optimising cargo flows and offering more flexible options to customers
The net-zero transit slot, the Canal’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050, and how shipowners are responding
Investment models, concession structures, and how Panama aims to balance value for customers, investors, and the Panamanian people

Tune in to hear the plans in place to keep one of the world’s most strategic arteries reliable, competitive, and relevant through to 2050 and beyond.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.
For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.
Connect with Gary Howard:
Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
Follow on Twitter:: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn