September 2026 was a significant month for the maritime industry, with port performance, green port investments, shipbuilding, digitalization, maritime safety, and alternative fuel technologies standing out in Türkiye and across the global maritime sector.
In Türkiye, the main agenda included port statistics, green cruise and container port targets, digital payment systems for maritime services, and the launching of the domestically built dredger UAB MAVİ VATAN. Research into converting ferries operating in the Sea of Marmara to electric and hybrid propulsion systems was another important development for the industry.
Globally, the agenda focused on IMO’s World Maritime Day, security risks around the Strait of Hormuz, alternative marine fuels, cargo and container safety standards, and Maritime Single Window implementation.
As official cargo and container statistics for September 2026 were published on 12 October 2026, these figures have also been included in this assessment. Additionally, the article covers August 2026 statistics released in September and official announcements made throughout the month. [1] [2] [3] [4]
National Maritime Developments
In September, Türkiye’s maritime agenda focused on cargo and container handling performance, cabotage transportation, green port investments, digital maritime services, and domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
These developments demonstrated that Türkiye’s position in maritime trade is shaped not only by cargo handling volumes but also by port infrastructure, vessel technologies, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency.
Turkish Ports Handled 42.4 Million Tons of Cargo in September
According to September 2026 cargo statistics published by the Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Turkish ports handled 42,380,097 tons of cargo during the month. This represented a 1.2% decrease compared to the same period of the previous year. [1]
During the January–September 2026 period, total cargo handled at Turkish ports increased by 0.6% year-on-year, reaching 412,147,102 tons. Despite the monthly decline, overall cargo volume maintained positive growth during the first nine months of the year.
International cargo movements decreased by 6.2% in September, reaching 29,508,353 tons. Outbound cargo amounted to 10,641,930 tons, while inbound cargo reached 18,866,423 tons. [1]
The decline in import- and export-related maritime transportation indicated weaker monthly foreign trade cargo movements. However, the performance of cabotage and transit cargo helped support overall port activity.
Cabotage and Transit Cargo Volumes Increased
One of the notable developments in September 2026 was the increase in cabotage transportation.
Cargo transported under cabotage arrangements increased by 16.9% compared to the same month of the previous year, reaching 6,829,293 tons. [1]
During the same period, transit cargo transportation increased by 8.2% to 6,042,451 tons.
The growth in cabotage transportation indicates stronger domestic maritime cargo movements between Turkish ports. The increase in transit cargo also highlights Türkiye’s importance in international logistics connections and transshipment operations.
These developments underline the importance of integrating maritime transportation with road logistics and improving the efficiency of cargo movements between ports.
Kocaeli, Aliağa, and İskenderun Led Cargo Handling Volumes
In September 2026, the highest cargo handling volume was recorded at port facilities within the administrative boundaries of the Kocaeli Regional Port Authority, with a total of 6,900,965 tons. [1]
Kocaeli was followed by Aliağa with 6,648,439 tons and İskenderun with 5,390,533 tons.
These three regions remain among Türkiye’s most important maritime trade centers for industrial production, energy logistics, raw material transportation, and foreign trade operations.
Kocaeli stands out for its extensive industrial infrastructure and foreign trade connections in the Marmara Region. Aliağa maintains its strong position through energy terminals and industrial cargo facilities, while İskenderun continues to serve as a major port region thanks to its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean and extensive hinterland connections.
The top ten regional port authorities handled a combined 36,091,277 tons of cargo in September, accounting for 85.2% of the total cargo handled at Turkish ports. [1]
Container Handling Increased by 7.6% in September
Container transportation demonstrated strong growth in September, outperforming overall cargo handling volumes.
According to the Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Turkish ports handled 1,191,577 TEU in September 2026, representing a 7.6% increase compared to the same month of the previous year. [2]
Total container handling during the January–September 2026 period increased by 2.7%, reaching 10,766,183 TEU.
International container movements increased by 7.9% to 891,309 TEU during September.
Outbound containers loaded for international transportation increased by 8.9% to 452,703 TEU, while inbound containers discharged from vessels arriving from abroad increased by 6.9% to 438,606 TEU. [2]
These figures indicate increased activity in both export- and import-related container transportation. The growth in container handling, despite the decline in overall cargo volumes, demonstrates that different cargo segments can follow different market trends during the same period.
Ambarlı, Tekirdağ, and Kocaeli Led Container Handling
In September 2026, the highest container handling volume was recorded within the administrative boundaries of the Ambarlı Regional Port Authority, with 279,294 TEU. [2]
Ambarlı was followed by Tekirdağ with 198,314 TEU and Kocaeli with 198,157 TEU.
The five leading regional port authorities handled a combined 1,005,375 TEU, representing 84.4% of Türkiye’s total container handling volume during the month.
By trading partner, the highest container volume was recorded in shipments involving Egypt, with 200,596 TEU. Egypt was followed by Greece and China. [2]
The strong position of Marmara Region ports in container transportation continues to reflect their strategic importance for industrial production, hinterland connectivity, and international maritime trade.
August Port Statistics Were Released in September
Official August 2026 statistics, published in September, also provided important insights into the performance of Turkish ports throughout the year.
According to figures released on 10 September 2026, Turkish ports handled 43,579,520 tons of cargo and 1,268,152 TEU in August. [3] [4]
Cargo handling volume decreased by 0.8% year-on-year, while container handling increased by 7.1%.
During the January–August period, total cargo handling reached 369,798,698 tons, while container handling amounted to 9,574,562 TEU.
When assessed alongside September results, these figures indicate that container transportation maintained a stronger growth trend than overall cargo handling in Turkish ports during 2026.
Türkiye Announced Green Cruise and Container Port Targets
Green port transformation was among the key developments on Türkiye’s maritime agenda in September.
In a statement issued on 10 September 2026, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure announced targets to establish a green cruise port by the end of 2028 and a green container port by 2030. [5]
The Ministry emphasized that the Green Port Certification Program promotes renewable energy consumption, the electrification of port equipment, shore power supply for vessels, energy efficiency, and zero-waste practices.
According to the announcement, four ports in Türkiye had obtained Green Port Certification.
The Ministry also stated that certain coastal facilities being newly constructed or expanding their existing areas by more than 25% would be required to comply with green port criteria. [5]
This transformation is particularly important for the electrification of port equipment, the development of shore power infrastructure, the reduction of energy consumption, and the monitoring of environmental performance.
Beyond environmental compliance, green port investments also have strategic value in reducing operating costs and strengthening the international competitiveness of port facilities.
Digitalization of Maritime Payment Processes Accelerated
On 14 September 2026, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure announced further progress in the digitalization of payment procedures for maritime services.
According to the Ministry, approximately 80% of maritime payments could be completed online using credit cards. [6]
Through the odemeler.uab.gov.tr platform, users can access and complete eligible maritime payments through a centralized digital service.
Work is continuing to expand the platform and integrate additional payment categories, including administrative fees.
This development is also significant for ship agents and maritime service providers.
Digital payment systems can simplify documentation and reduce administrative processing times during official procedures associated with port calls and vessel operations.
They also support faster and more transparent coordination between ship agencies, public authorities, and other operational stakeholders.
Domestically Built Dredger UAB MAVİ VATAN Was Launched
One of the notable developments in Türkiye’s shipbuilding industry in September was the launching of UAB MAVİ VATAN, a dredger designed and constructed domestically at Turkish shipyards.
According to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s announcement on 26 September 2026, the vessel is Türkiye’s first domestically designed suction dredger. [7]
UAB MAVİ VATAN is 85 meters long, has a dredging depth of 20 meters, and offers a hopper capacity of 2,000 cubic meters.
Equipped with a fully automated system, the vessel is designed to perform dredging operations while underway.
The dredger is expected to enter service following the completion of sea trials. [7]
Dredging vessels perform essential functions in maintaining required water depths at port entrances and navigation channels, removing seabed deposits, and supporting safe vessel operations.
This investment represents an important step in strengthening Türkiye’s specialized shipbuilding capabilities and expanding domestic production of equipment used in maritime infrastructure projects.
Istanbul Hosted a Workshop on Maritime Public Transportation
The Second Maritime Transportation Workshop was held on 9 September 2026 as part of the Istanbul Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan. [8]
The workshop addressed increasing the share of maritime transportation in Istanbul’s overall mobility network, improving pier accessibility, developing new ferry routes, and strengthening integration between maritime and other transportation modes.
Accessibility improvements at Üsküdar, Kabataş, Karaköy, Sütlüce, and Bostancı piers were evaluated.
Selection criteria and feasibility studies for potential new maritime transportation routes were also discussed.
These initiatives highlight the growing importance of maritime passenger transportation within major urban mobility systems.
Expanding maritime transportation can contribute to reducing road congestion, improving transport alternatives, and supporting sustainable urban mobility.
Global Maritime Developments
In September 2026, the global maritime agenda focused on implementing IMO regulations, maritime security risks, alternative marine fuels, ship and port safety, and digitalization.
The emphasis on turning international maritime regulations into practical implementation, particularly during World Maritime Day, brought regulatory compliance and operational capabilities back into focus.
World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice
World Maritime Day was celebrated on 24 September 2026 under the IMO theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.” [9]
The theme, covering 2026 and 2027, emphasizes that adopting international maritime regulations is not sufficient on its own.
These regulations must also be effectively implemented through national legislation, inspection procedures, and everyday vessel operations.
IMO is focusing on strengthening implementation capabilities in areas such as maritime safety, emerging technologies, decarbonization, cybersecurity, maritime fraud, digitalization, and marine environmental protection.
The completion of the first audit cycle under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme was another important aspect of this approach.
According to IMO, 168 Member States were audited to assess their implementation of international maritime obligations. [9]
This approach demonstrates that regulatory compliance for ship operators, ports, ship agents, and maritime administrations involves more than maintaining documentation.
Effective implementation requires training, operational procedures, inspections, and coordination between institutions.
IMO Called for an End to Attacks Against Merchant Ships
Security risks around the Strait of Hormuz remained a major concern for the global maritime industry in September.
In a statement issued on 16 September 2026, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that merchant ships and seafarers must not become targets of armed conflicts. [10]
According to figures verified by IMO, 80 attacks against commercial vessels had been recorded in and around the Strait of Hormuz between the beginning of the conflict on 28 February 2026 and mid-September.
At least 22 seafarers lost their lives in these attacks. [10]
These developments demonstrate that safe navigation is not only a commercial matter but also directly concerns human life.
Security risks at critical maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz can significantly affect tanker operations, energy transportation, insurance costs, route planning, crew changes, and supply chain continuity.
For ship operators, comprehensive risk assessments, crew protection, and continuous monitoring of relevant maritime security advisories remain essential when planning voyages through high-risk areas.
Alternative Fuel Safety Was Discussed at IMO CCC 12
The 12th session of IMO’s Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 12) was held from 14 to 18 September 2026. [11]
The meeting addressed safety regulations for alternative fuel use on ships, cargo transportation, and adaptation to emerging technologies.
The Sub-Committee finalized revisions to interim safety guidelines for ships using methyl and ethyl alcohol as fuel.
Progress was also made on developing safety requirements to support new fuel technologies. [11]
The wider adoption of alternative marine fuels creates new requirements for vessel design, machinery systems, fuel storage, bunkering operations, crew training, and emergency response procedures.
For this reason, the transition toward alternative fuels must be considered not only in terms of emission reductions but also in relation to vessel and crew safety.
The Use of Ammonia as a Marine Fuel Was on IMO’s Agenda
A technical seminar on the use of ammonia as a marine fuel was held at IMO Headquarters on 17 September 2026.
Approximately 800 participants discussed the current state of ammonia fuel technologies and their potential future applications in shipping. [12]
The seminar covered ammonia production, bunkering infrastructure, marine engine applications, emission control, safety requirements, and environmental impacts.
Ammonia is being considered among potential low-greenhouse-gas-emission marine fuels when produced through suitable low-emission processes.
However, its toxicity and the challenges associated with storage, leakage prevention, and emergency response require specialized safety measures.
The wider adoption of ammonia-powered ships will therefore depend on appropriate bunkering infrastructure at ports, personnel training, and the development of international safety standards.
The growth of alternative marine fuels will create new operational requirements not only for ship operators but also for ports, bunker suppliers, shipyards, and ship agencies.
Preparedness for Marine Pollution from Alternative Fuels Was Strengthened
IMO organized a research and development forum in Singapore on 21–22 September 2026, focusing on preparedness and response to marine pollution incidents involving alternative fuels. [13]
The forum addressed potential spill and accident scenarios involving LNG, LPG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, biofuels, and synthetic fuels.
Participants discussed the behavior of different fuel types in marine environments, risk assessment methods, emergency response procedures, and post-incident recovery processes.
Compared with conventional petroleum-based fuels, alternative fuels have different physical and chemical characteristics that can create additional technical challenges for pollution response teams.
This development highlights the need to strengthen environmental risk management and emergency response capabilities alongside the transition toward low-carbon maritime transportation.
IMO Launched a Global Assessment of Maritime Single Window Implementation
On 21 September 2026, IMO launched a global survey to assess the implementation and effectiveness of Maritime Single Window systems. [14]
Maritime Single Window enables information required during a vessel’s arrival, stay, and departure from port to be submitted to public authorities through a centralized digital platform.
Under the IMO Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention), the use of Maritime Single Window systems became mandatory on 1 January 2024.
The September assessment aims to identify how these systems are being implemented across different countries, the technical and administrative challenges encountered, and potential areas for improvement. [14]
IMO also organized a regional workshop in Batumi, Georgia, from 9 to 11 September, bringing together Black Sea and Caspian Sea littoral states to discuss Maritime Single Window implementation. [15]
These developments demonstrate the increasing importance of digital data exchange and internationally standardized procedures in port operations.
For ship agents, single window systems can help streamline vessel arrival and departure notifications, port permits, customs procedures, and information exchange between public authorities.
Electric and Hybrid Ferries Could Reduce Emissions in the Sea of Marmara
A study published by IMO on 29 September 2026 found that converting ferry operations in the Sea of Marmara to electric and hybrid propulsion systems could deliver significant emission reductions. [16]
The research was initiated by Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure and supported by IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 programme.
It examined 67 Ro-Ro and Ro-Pax vessels operating between 26 ports in the Sea of Marmara.
According to the study, a suitable fleet transition scenario incorporating hybrid and fully electric vessels could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 63% by 2050 compared with the existing diesel-powered operating scenario. [16]
The research also indicated that transitioning to electric and hybrid systems could reduce air pollution, generate economic benefits through improved public health and environmental conditions, and create new employment opportunities.
However, charging infrastructure, initial investment costs, energy planning, and regulatory requirements remain among the main challenges associated with this transition.
The study represents an important development in demonstrating the potential of domestic maritime transportation and ferry operations in Türkiye to contribute to low-carbon transport targets.
What September 2026 Means for the Maritime Industry
The developments of September 2026 demonstrated that the maritime industry is undergoing simultaneous changes in operational capacity, digitalization, environmental compliance, and safety.
In Türkiye, container handling performance, green port targets, and domestic shipbuilding projects stood out.
Globally, safe navigation, alternative fuel technologies, and the implementation of international maritime regulations continued to shape the industry agenda.
Container Transportation Outperformed Overall Cargo Handling
In September, total cargo handling at Turkish ports declined year-on-year, while container handling increased by 7.6%.
This demonstrates that different cargo segments can follow distinct commercial trends.
The growth in container transportation can be considered a positive development for Türkiye’s international trade and logistics connections.
Green Port Investments Are Becoming Increasingly Important
Türkiye’s green cruise and container port targets, together with research into electric ferries in the Sea of Marmara, demonstrate that maritime decarbonization extends beyond vessels to port and passenger transportation infrastructure.
Shore power, renewable energy, electric port equipment, and alternative fuel infrastructure are expected to become increasingly important components of future port investments.
Digitalization Supports Efficiency in Ship Agency and Port Operations
The digitalization of maritime payments in Türkiye and IMO’s Maritime Single Window initiatives represent important steps toward simplifying administrative procedures in vessel operations.
Electronic applications, payments, document management, and data exchange can help ship agents coordinate more effectively between public authorities and operational stakeholders.
Alternative Fuels Create New Safety Requirements
Ammonia, methanol, hydrogen, and other alternative marine fuels are attracting attention because of their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
However, their use requires different storage, bunkering, and emergency response procedures compared with conventional marine fuels.
IMO’s meetings in September highlighted the importance of developing safety standards alongside low-carbon shipping technologies.
Crew Safety Remains a Fundamental Priority for Global Maritime Trade
Attacks around the Strait of Hormuz demonstrate how commercial vessels can be directly affected by geopolitical conflicts.
For this reason, route security, crew protection, voyage planning in high-risk areas, and compliance with international maritime safety requirements will remain fundamental operational priorities for maritime companies.
Conclusion
The maritime developments of September 2026 highlighted significant progress in operational efficiency, safety, environmental compliance, and technological transformation in Türkiye and across the global maritime sector.
In Turkish ports, overall cargo handling declined slightly in September, while container transportation recorded strong growth.
Green port targets, the digitalization of maritime services, and the launching of the UAB MAVİ VATAN dredger were among the important developments supporting Türkiye’s maritime infrastructure and technical capabilities.
Globally, World Maritime Day, security risks in the Strait of Hormuz, alternative marine fuels, and Maritime Single Window initiatives were among the developments shaping the future of the industry.
In the final quarter of 2026, port performance, container transportation, green port investments, digitalization in ship agency services, the safe use of alternative fuels, and navigational safety along critical shipping routes will remain key areas to monitor.
References
[1] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Cargo Statistics – September 2026, 12 October 2026.
https://denizcilik.uab.gov.tr/uploads/pages/aylik-yayinlar/dgm-yuk-istatistikleri-haber-bulteni-eylul-2026.pdf
[2] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Container Statistics – September 2026, 12 October 2026.
https://denizcilik.uab.gov.tr/uploads/pages/aylik-yayinlar/dgm-konteyner-istatistikleri-haber-bulteni-eylul-2026.pdf
[3] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Cargo Statistics – August 2026, 10 September 2026.
https://denizcilik.uab.gov.tr/uploads/pages/aylik-yayinlar/dgm-yuk-istatistikleri-haber-bulteni-agustos-2026.pdf
[4] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, Container Statistics – August 2026, 10 September 2026.
https://denizcilik.uab.gov.tr/uploads/pages/aylik-yayinlar/dgm-konteyner-istatistikleri-haber-bulteni-agustos-2026.pdf
[5] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Denizciliğin Rotası Yeşil Dönüşüm, 10 September 2026.
https://www.uab.gov.tr/haberler/denizciligin-rotasi-yesil-doenuesuem/
[6] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Denizcilikte Dijital Kolaylık, 14 September 2026.
https://www.uab.gov.tr/haberler/denizcilikte-dijital-kolaylik/
[7] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, İlk Yerli ve Millî Tarama Gemisi Suya İndi, 26 September 2026.
https://www.uab.gov.tr/haberler/ilk-yerli-ve-milli-tarama-gemisi-suya-indi/
[8] Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Transport Sectoral Operational Programme, Second Maritime Transportation Workshop Held under the Istanbul Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, September 2026.
https://ipa.uab.gov.tr/haberler/ikinci-deniz-ulasimi-calistayi-istanbul-skup-kapsaminda-gerceklestirildi202609
[9] International Maritime Organization, World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice – Powering Maritime Excellence, 24 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pressbriefings/pages/world-maritime-day-2026-from-policy-to-practice.aspx
[10] International Maritime Organization, Stop Attacking Merchant Ships and Seafarers: IMO Secretary-General to Member States, 16 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pressbriefings/pages/stop-attacking-ships-and-seafarers-imo-secretary-general.aspx
[11] International Maritime Organization, Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 12) – Closing Remarks, 18 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/secretarygeneral/pages/ccc-12-closing-remarks.aspx
[12] International Maritime Organization, Exploring the Use of Ammonia as Marine Fuel in Shipping, 22 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2498.aspx
[13] International Maritime Organization, IMO R&D Forum Advances Global Preparedness for Alternative Fuel Pollution Incidents, 22 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2497.aspx
[14] International Maritime Organization, Share Your Experience: IMO Seeks Feedback on Maritime Single Window Implementation, 21 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2496.aspx
[15] International Maritime Organization, Black Sea and Caspian Sea Littoral States Advance Maritime Single Window Implementation, 11 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2491.aspx
[16] International Maritime Organization, Electric and Hybrid Ferries Could Cut Emissions by 63% in Sea of Marmara, Study Finds, 29 September 2026.
https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2500.aspx
