Panama Cancels Registration of Sanctioned Vessels to Protect Flag Integrity

The Panama Maritime Authority has taken swift action to cancel the registration of six Panamanian vessels that were included in the UK Sanctions List. These ships were added to the list on November 25, prompting the authority to prioritize the well-being of the Panamanian Registry. Director General of the Merchant Marine, Ramón Franco, emphasized the importance of ensuring the registry remains free of international sanctions and vessels that could tarnish the flag’s reputation.

In response to Executive Decree 512 issued on October 18, 2024, Panama has already cancelled three ships and is in the process of cancelling eight more. The administration is committed to upholding the integrity of the Panamanian Registry and ensuring that no vessels associated with sanctions lists are allowed to operate under the Panamanian flag. This proactive approach demonstrates Panama’s dedication to maintaining a reputable and compliant maritime registry.

The expedited cancellation of the six vessels underscores Panama’s commitment to upholding international standards and protecting the prestige of its flag. By swiftly addressing the presence of sanctioned vessels in the registry, the Panama Maritime Authority is sending a clear message that it takes compliance and reputation management seriously. This decisive action aligns with the authority’s goal of maintaining a clean and respected registry in the global maritime industry.

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