Panama Ship Registry Awarded QUALSHIP21 Designation by US Coast Guard

The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has received recognition from the United States Coast Guard for its qualification to the Quality Shipping for the 21st Century Program (QUALSHIP21). The Panama Ship Registry has achieved classification in this prestigious US government program for the first time. This acknowledgment is a result of the Panamanian fleet’s commitment to quality shipping and their excellent record of Port State Control when arriving at US ports.

The QUALSHIP21 program was established by the United States Coast Guard in 2002, aiming to ensure safe and environmentally responsible maritime commerce. To qualify for this program, vessels must meet specific requirements that promote compliance and good environmental stewardship. The Panamanian fleet has reported a compliance rate above the 99% threshold needed for inclusion in QUALSHIP21. This impressive achievement is attributed to various measures implemented by the Panama Maritime Authority.

One of the measures introduced by the AMP is the requirement for all Panamanian flag vessels transiting or visiting domestic ports before arriving in the United States to undergo an Annual Security Inspection (ASI) upon arrival in Panama. Additionally, starting from August 1, 2022, the AMP has initiated a special flag inspection program for vessels arriving at US ports that have a history making them candidates for Port State Inspections by the US Coast Guard. These measures ensure the reduction of potential detentions upon vessel arrival at US ports, contributing to the fleet’s stellar performance in Port State Control.

The acknowledgment from the United States Coast Guard serves as a testament to the Panama Ship Registry’s commitment to quality shipping and its dedication to ensuring the safety and environmental responsibility of maritime commerce. The Panama Maritime Authority will continue to implement measures to uphold these high standards and further improve the performance of the Panamanian fleet in Port State Control inspections.

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