New measures to improve transparency in ship registration and counter the misuse of flags have been approved by the International Maritime Organization. The guidelines were adopted by the organization’s Legal Committee at a recent session.

Read also: IMO Chief: China’s Vital Role in Global Maritime Cooperation

The non-binding framework is intended to strengthen due diligence and oversight of national registries while improving the accuracy of ownership records. It provides practical recommendations to flag states on verification processes, ownership checks, and sharing information.

The action responds to a significant increase in fraudulent registrations and false flag operations. Data presented to the committee indicated that within the last year, 529 vessels were identified as falsely flying a national flag. Nearly 40 member states reported instances where criminal groups misused their registries without the state’s awareness.

The new guidelines focus on tightening controls over registration agents, enhancing quality assurance, and strengthening checks on vessel identity and eligibility. The IMO secretary-general characterized the development as a necessary step for safety, marine environment protection, and seafarer welfare.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform