World’s powerful passports – The Hindu BusinessLine
Singapore holds the crown as the world’s most powerful passport, with visa-free access to 193 destinations out of 227 globally, according to the latest Henley Passport Index. The index is based on TIMATIC (travel information manual automatic) data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a prior visa. Asian nations continue to lead the global mobility race. Japan and South Korea share second place with 190 visa-free destinations.
A strong European contingent occupies the rest of the Top 5. Seven EU passports share third place — Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Spain — all with access to 189 destinations. Next up is another seven-nation European cohort, with visa-free entry to 188 destinations — Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and Sweden; New Zealand, the only nation to challenge the regional dominance, ties in fifth place with Greece and Switzerland.
Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the ranking, with its citizens able to access just 25 destinations without a prior visa, says a release.
Transparency in bunkering
All bunker vessels operating in the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges must use a mass flow meter (MFM) when delivering residual distillates and biofuels. This technology ensures accurate measurement of fuel quantities, making bunkering more transparent, efficient and reliable.
Rotterdam Port said that a valid bunkering licence remains mandatory for delivering these fuels. Compliance with specific regulations is required and regularly monitored by port authorities, sometimes unannounced or triggered by market signals. The bunker surveyor continues to play a vital role, even with MFM in place. Ports strongly recommend using a qualified and recognised surveyor familiar with the system.
The MFM system must be certified and registered with the Harbour Master before January 1, 2026. Failure to comply may result in fines or revocation of the licence.
If you work with a bunker barge, ensure all documentation is in order, the port said.
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Published on August 11, 2025
