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Current issues in shipping

The role of maritime transport is more important than ever in supporting the resilience of national economies during the current crisis. Below current issues paint a picture of the status quo and how we at ICS are supporting our members and our seafarers.

We have also included efforts to decarbonise shipping, including the ongoing negotiations at the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), and more.

Key Issues

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Showing 71 – 80 of 108 results

Joint statement from ECSA and ICS on the current situation in the Persian Gulf

Following the seizure of Greek flagged oil tankers “Delta Poseidon” and “Prudent Warrior” on 27 May 2022, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA) jointly call for a quick and diplomatic resolution in order for the vessels and crew to be released.

1 June 2022 Statement

Shipping Industry Flag State Performance 2021/2022

The Shipping Industry Flag State Performance Table brings together data regarding the performance of flag States against specific criteria, including Port State Control (PSC) records, ratification of international conventions and IMO meeting attendance. The 2021/2022 edition is based on the most up-to-date data available as of January 2022.

Current Issue

Protectionism in Maritime Economies Study

ICS has commissioned this major Study to provide an assessment of protectionist or restrictive trade policies and measures that are being implemented by governments worldwide, which may be preventing national economies from reaping the full benefits of having access to efficient maritime transport services.

Current Issue

The R&D Fund

To achieve the development of viable zero-carbon emission ships, ICS and its industry partners are proposing the establishment of a groundbreaking $5 billion Research & Development (R&D) fund.

Current Issue

The COVID-19 pandemic: The crew change crisis

The continuing inability of ship operators to conduct crew changes has been the single greatest operational challenge confronting the global shipping industry since the Second World War.

Current Issue

The COVID-19 Pandemic: Survey and Certification Issues

The ability of flag state authorities to conduct statutory surveys, and for ships (and seafarers) to be issued with required certification to allow them to continue to trade, emerged as a serious issue at the very start of the pandemic.

Current Issue

OECD Digital Taxation Initiative 2020

In March 2019, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) launched a major public consultation on the development a multilateral digital taxation framework for global application (i.e. not just by OECD nations).

Current Issue

Canal Tolls

The Panama and Suez Canals are of great commercial importance to the shipping industry. They are critical to reducing voyage times and fuel costs, as well as the sector’s CO2 emissions.

Current Issue