Executive Decisions at the IMO

The administration of the IMO Number Scheme for ships was among subjects reviewed at this week’s Council meeting of the International Maritime Organization.

The IMO Number Scheme for ships applies to all passenger ships of 100 gross tonnage and upwards and to all cargo ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards. It was highlighted that there remain sufficient 7-digit IMO numbers available to be issued for the foreseeable future (totalling over 400,000 ships). This discussion led to a new resolution being sent to the IMO’s Assembly (next week) to formalise minor scheme amendments and the apportionment of associated expenses among member States.

Budget matters were a central theme of the meeting, including an analysis of who has paid their annual IMO ‘contributions’ and who has not.  Current annual financial collection rates from member States are over 97%.

IMO Council also reviewed the status of IMO Conventions. It was noted that the 2021 amendments to the IMO Convention are not yet in force due to insufficient ratifications. Once in force, this will expand the IMO Council to 52 Members, extend Council Members' terms to four years, and add Arabic, Chinese, and Russian as authentic texts of the IMO Convention.

The Nautical Institute was represented by Captains Chris O’Flaherty AFNI and Moin Ahmed FNI, and Ms Gina Kim MNI.