Argentina has officially joined the 2012 Cape Town Agreement, which will come into effect in February 2027. This milestone addresses critical gaps in global maritime safety by establishing mandatory safety standards for over 45,000 fishing vessels measuring 24 meters or more. The Agreement aims to enhance safety, improve working conditions for fishers, and protect marine environments.
On February 24, 2026, Argentina’s Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Ms. Mariana Edith Plaza, deposited the instrument of accession at the IMO Headquarters in London. With this accession, the total number of countries participating in the Agreement rises to 28, collectively representing 3,754 qualifying vessels. The Agreement will take effect once at least 22 states, representing 3,600 qualifying vessels, consent to it.
Once enacted, the Cape Town Agreement mandates that member states incorporate its provisions into national law, ensuring compliance through flag state responsibilities and port state inspections. This includes regulations on vessel design, stability, and safety equipment. Additionally, the Agreement aims to mitigate marine plastic pollution from lost fishing gear.
The Cape Town Agreement represents a significant advancement in fishing vessel safety, complementing existing international frameworks. It stands alongside the STCW-F Convention, the ILO’s Work in Fishing Convention, and the FAO’s Agreement on Port State Measures, collectively enhancing the safety and sustainability of global fishing operations.
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