IMO Strengthens Global Port State Control Data Exchange with Two New Agreements

Chennai:

Port Wings News Network:

IMO has concluded the latest updated data-exchange agreements with the Black Sea and Caribbean Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on Port State Control (PSC) in order to strengthen the global exchange of PSC inspection information.

The agreements were signed at IMO Headquarters in London on 21 July by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, Onur Turhan, Secretary of the Black Sea MoU Secretariat, and Jodi Munn Barrow, Secretary General of the Caribbean MoU Secretariat. 

The signings strengthen cooperation by expanding the exchange of PSC inspection information and supporting the continued development of the PSC module within IMO’s Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS).

With these agreements, IMO has now concluded updated data-exchange agreements with eight regional PSC regimes. Similar agreements have previously been signed with the Abuja, Indian Ocean, Tokyo, Mediterranean, Paris and Riyadh MoUs, while discussions continue with the Viña del Mar Agreement and the United States Coast Guard.

Supporting the PSC Overarching Database

The updated agreements represent another important milestone towards the development of a PSC Overarching Database (ODB), which will enable more comprehensive, harmonized and efficient sharing of PSC inspection data worldwide. The expanded exchange of validated inspection data will improve transparency, consistency and data integrity, while reducing duplication in reporting by Member States.

The IMO-led ODB project aims to facilitate near real-time information sharing among PSC regimes, strengthen risk-based inspection planning and support the effective implementation of IMO instruments.

Strengthening global PSC cooperation

Port State control regimes inspect foreign-flagged ships visiting ports to verify compliance with internationally agreed safety, security and environmental standards. The updated agreements enhance cooperation between IMO and regional PSC regimes. They will increase transparency, support the harmonization of PSC activities, improve monitoring of implementation by Member States and contribute to safer, more secure and environmentally sound shipping worldwide.

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