Why MLC Compliance Matters During Port State Control Inspections Port State Control (PSC) inspections continue to identify recurring Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) deficiencies onboard vessels. Being caught with these issues can lead to detentions, delays, and reputational damage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common deficiencies found — and […]
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The maritime industry has reached a historic milestone with the confirmation that the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea (2010 HNS Convention) will officially enter into force on 29 November 2027. This long-awaited development closes one […]
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The United Kingdom has significantly escalated its sanctions framework against Russia, with sweeping new rules that came into force on 20 May 2026. The amended regulations touch virtually every corner of maritime trade — from liquefied natural gas shipments and oil refining to uranium imports and cutting-edge technology exports. The […]
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China’s updated Maritime Code, set to come into force on 1 May 2026, introduces a series of significant reforms that will affect shipowners, charterers, cargo stakeholders, and others involved in international shipping linked to Chinese ports. These changes aim to modernize the legal framework, enhance clarity, and strengthen protections across […]
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In the world of maritime trade, the shipowner is far more than simply the legal owner of a vessel. They are the backbone of every voyage — the party responsible for ensuring the ship is fit, legal, compliant, and commercially reliable from port to port. While charterers, shippers, and agents […]
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The long-awaited 2012 Cape Town Agreement, developed under the International Maritime Organization, is finally approaching implementation, marking a major step toward safer seas for fishing vessels worldwide. This landmark framework introduces the first legally binding international safety standards specifically for fishing vessels. It lays down comprehensive rules covering vessel design, […]
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The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has issued a strong warning to maritime employers, stressing that failure to uphold minimum standards for seafarers’ welfare will lead to serious enforcement actions. Under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), ship operators are obligated to ensure timely wage payments, safe living conditions, sufficient rest, […]
Read moreThe outbreak of hostilities in the Persian Gulf has sent shockwaves through global shipping markets, raising urgent legal questions for shipowners and charterers. From safe port obligations to war risk clauses and force majeure, contractual frameworks are being tested in real time. Region on Edge On 28 February 2026, US […]
Read moreRevised interpretation of requirements to Permanent Means of Access (PMA) IMPORTANT NOTICE For ships fitted with Permanent Means of Access (PMA), the revised interpretation from the IMO introduces additional requirements that must be followed by ship owners and managers. This revised interpretation is particularly relevant for oil tankers and bulk […]
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Deficiency: Where the Fleet is Failing The start of 2026 has brought a surge in Port State Control activity. With 19,234 deficiencies recorded globally in January alone, the industry average has climbed to nearly 3 per vessel. As the 2026 CIC on Cargo Securing begins to loom, and new Lifting […]
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