Order of Investigation and Request for Comments: Investigation into Flags of Convenience and Unfavorable Conditions Created by Certain Flagging Practices

The World Shipping Council (WSC), as the primary industry trade association representing international liner shipping, applauds the Commission for raising the important issues posed by vessels that are flagging under fraudulent registries, or nation States not adhering to international regulations for safety and security at sea. Vessels purposely engaging in such conduct, as well as nation States that abdicate their flag-State responsibilities, put all seafarers, vessels and coastal States at risk, and threaten the efficient flow of the ocean commerce that carries more than ninety percent of global trade.

WSC welcomes the opportunity to share our global perspective gained through the operations of our members, as well as our consultative status and long-standing participation at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Labor Organization (ILO), World Customs Organization (WCO), and complementary industry-led public-private partnerships, on ways the Commission can pursue its objectives.

Read WSC’s comments here.