Maritime Industry Briefing: Shipping's Public Profile Measured, and Anti-Corruption Network Marks 15 Years

## New Index Puts a Number on Shipping's Public Profile A new online tool designed to measure how much attention the global shipping industry receives from the wider public has officially gone live, according to Splash247. The index was created by Dustin Eno, a specialist in crisis communications, and aims to give maritime companies a data-driven way to assess public interest in shipping news and major incidents. The launch addresses a long-standing challenge for the industry: shipping moves roughly 90% of world trade yet frequently operates below the radar of mainstream public consciousness — until a high-profile incident forces it into the headlines. By tracking and quantifying that attention over time, the index could prove a valuable resource for communications teams, PR professionals, and executives seeking to understand when and why shipping captures — or loses — the public's interest. For an industry that has historically struggled to articulate its importance to policymakers and the general public, a standardised measure of media and public engagement could carry real strategic value, particularly during crises or regulatory debates where public perception matters. --- ## MACN Reflects on 15 Years Fighting Maritime Corruption The Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) is marking its fifteenth anniversary, with CEO Cecilia Müller Torbrand offering a reflective assessment of the organisation's journey, according to Seatrade Maritime. Founded to tackle the endemic bribery and corrupt practices that have long plagued port operations, inspections, and customs procedures across global trade routes, MACN has grown into one of the most recognised collective action initiatives in the maritime sector. The network brings together shipowners, operators, and industry stakeholders to share data on corruption incidents and coordinate responses to demands for illicit payments. Müller Torbrand's retrospective — captured in the rhetorical question 'Fifteen years already?' — underscores both the progress made and the scale of the challenge that remains. Corruption in maritime trade continues to impose significant costs on operators, distort competition, and undermine the rule of law in key port states. The anniversary serves as a timely reminder that compliance and ethical business conduct are not merely regulatory obligations but ongoing commitments requiring sustained industry-wide collaboration. As global supply chains face mounting scrutiny from regulators and ESG-focused investors alike, MACN's work remains as relevant as ever. --- *Sources: Splash247, Seatrade Maritime*