Flag State Performance Improvements Highlighted in ICS Report

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has released its 2023/2024 Flag State Performance Table Report, which assesses the safety and environmental performance of the world’s merchant vessels. The report shows positive performance by flag states such as Bermuda, Denmark, and Japan, but also highlights negative performance indicators for flag states like Togo, Algeria, and the Comoros. The ICS encourages shipowners to engage with their flag states to improve safety, environmental protection, and working conditions.

The report also notes positive improvements in smaller flag states like Costa Rica, Egypt, Mexico, and Thailand. Overall, the report highlights improvements in flag state participation in International Maritime Organization (IMO) meetings and the use of recognized organizations to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and labor standards. Guy Platten, Secretary General of the ICS, acknowledged the positive information in the report but also emphasized the need for flag states to address high levels of negative performance indicators for the benefit of the shipping industry.

The ICS’s flag state performance reporting methodology includes examination of port state control records, verification of ratification of major maritime treaties, and consideration of participation in IMO meetings. The full 2023/2024 report can be found on the ICS website.

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