During the 20th Maritime State Development Council meeting in Goa, significant advancements for Indian shipping were announced. The launch of the Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre and the Indian Maritime Centre aims to enhance the country’s maritime industry. Plans for a Mega Shipbuilding Park and progress on the Sagarmala program were also highlighted.
The EU has updated the Schengen Borders Code to strengthen border management, including classifying seafarers as essential workers. This decision aims to improve coordination within the EU and equip member states with better tools to address challenges at external and internal borders, especially during health emergencies. The update underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting essential workers in the maritime industry.
The NEN 7427-1 standard by the Royal Netherlands Standardization Institute addresses the need for biofuel specifications in maritime shipping. Developed with input from industry stakeholders, it sets quality requirements for FAME and M-FAME blends with marine fuels. This standard aims to support emission reduction goals and may eventually be integrated into international standards like ISO 8217 for consistent biofuel use in the maritime industry.
Paris MoU has released guidelines for certifying Seafarers and Manning Requirements in line with STCW Convention, MLC, and SOLAS. SOLAS V/14.2 applies to ships under SOLAS 1974, while STCW 1978 and MLC, 2006 apply to seafarers on seagoing ships. Inspections should note deficiencies related to these conventions, with specific focus on verifying certificates and endorsements. PSCC instructions should be followed for MLC deficiencies.
Eleni Antoniadou and Neil Henderson from Gard P&I Club offer solutions for FuelEU Maritime compliance. Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBOs) are key for long-term compliance. In the near term, biofuels, wind-assisted propulsion systems, and onshore power supply are viable options. Onboard Carbon Capture may be considered in the future. Read more on Gard’s website.
The Global Maritime Forum’s Getting to Zero Coalition has released an insight brief on how compliance mechanisms impact voluntary book-and-claim-enabled activities, using the FuelEU Maritime regulation as a case study. The FEUM legislation, part of the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package, aims to reduce GHG emissions from the shipping sector through renewable fuels.
Britannia’s Club has been informed by Van Ameyde Marine about UK Immigration guidelines affecting seafarers receiving medical treatment in the NHS. New legislation emphasizes payment efficiency, with outstanding debts potentially impacting a seafarer’s immigration status. Qualifying debts over £500 could lead to visa refusal, affecting UK crew changes for shipowners.
According to DNV, the 10th session of the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 10) initiated a comprehensive revision of the STCW Convention and Code to address experiences, emerging challenges, and technological advancements. The session also agreed to establish a new module in the IMO’s online information database for a trial period.
Swedish’s Club correspondents, ETIC Sas and Africa P&I Togo, provided the Club with the latest information on hefty fines for maritime infringement in Lomé. Recent developments in Lomé have expanded the role of customs authorities, particularly concerning maritime infringements, which were previously handled by the Maritime Police.
ABS has introduced a comprehensive approach to support the development of the next generation of designs and equipment driven by decarbonization and digitalization. The Marine Vessel Rules now include a standardized risk-based methodology and functional requirements, enabling the safe and rapid adoption of innovation and technology. This approach simplifies and clarifies class requirements, allowing for the incorporation of new technology.
