English
BACK TO KNOWLEDGE
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO) – MARITIME SAFETY COMMITTEE (MSC) UPDATE
Published: 12 December 2024
The IMO recently hosted the 109th session of the MSC from 2 to 6 December 2024.
During this session, several amendments were adopted, and the text of further amendments and circulars were approved. Key highlights include:
- Adopted amendments to the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code), removing the prohibition on using Ammonia as a fuel source when carried as cargo, from 1 July 2026 (whilst also approving the text of a circular on voluntary early adoption)
- Approved interim guidelines for the safe use of Ammonia as fuel
- Adopted various amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), with entry into force from 1 January 2028
- Approved various amendments to the IGC Code, expected to be adopted at MSC 110, and entering into force from 1 January 2028
- Approved the draft amendments to the requirements for pilot transfer arrangements, including the possibility of early adoption, with the intention of adoption at MSC 110
- Continued progress on the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) Code, with the non-mandatory code now expected to be finalised and adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, with the mandatory code entering force in 2032.
A useful summary of the main outcomes from the session can be found here.
For more information and interpretation of the upcoming regulations, shipowners should consult their classification society and/or flag state administration as appropriate.
The next session, MSC 110, is scheduled to take place between 18 and 27 June 2025.