Cleveland PortPort of Cleveland to Offer Direct Shipping to Europe – Beginning in April, the Port of Cleveland plans to offer direct, scheduled freight service to ports in northern Europe. Through this new service, the port aims to provide shipping that is more efficient for manufacturers while generating an economic boost for the region.

Read more from Miami Herald.

Kiel Canal Closed – The Kiel Canal in Germany was closed this week after two ships collided Monday morning. One of the vessels is leaking diesel into the waterway and is in danger of sinking, while the other sustained little or no damage.

Read more from gCaptain.

Panama Canal Expansion Delays – The Panama Canal completion date has been changed from April to June of 2015. The delay is being caused by a re-evaluation of the locks’ electromechanical works.

Read more from Journal of Commerce.

Israel Proposes Rail Project to Compete with Suez Canal – The Israeli International Affairs and Environment Committee is considering a railway project that would link the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. This $40 billion project would create a new route linking Asia with Africa.

Read more from Gulf Ship News.