Security
June 2021
Shipping industry welcomes Nigeria’s creation of “Deep Blue” to stamp out piracy in the Gulf of Guinea
The Round Table of Shipowner Associations and OCIMF have expressed their full support for the launch of Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project.
May 2021
Shipping industry launch the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on Suppression of Piracy
The attacks on merchant ships in the Gulf of Guinea by Nigerian pirates must end. So far, 99 maritime companies, organisations and flag states, including BIMCO, have signed the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on Suppression of Piracy, which was launched today.
Ships are advised to take extra precaution when anchoring in Malaysian waters
During a 10-day operation called “Jangkar Haram”, Malaysia clamped down on illegal anchoring in its waters. The ships involved have either been warned and ordered to leave or detained and fined. BIMCO recommends Masters to take extra precaution and obtain prior permission from relevant authorities before anchoring.
April 2021
Nigeria and ICC announce ground-breaking antipiracy forum
In an unprecedented move, Nigeria and the Interregional Coordination Centre for the Implementation of Regional Strategy for Maritime Safety and Security in Central and West Africa (ICC) have announced the formation of a Maritime Collaboration Forum to provide shared awareness and deconfliction of activities in the Gulf of Guinea (GOG-MCF/SHADE). The forum is for all stakeholders, both regional and international.
Lloyd’s Market Association advices underwriters of poised situation in Ukraine
Russia’s announcement that it will close access to the Kerch Strait which connect the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov has triggered a reaction within the London insurance market.
March 2021
Security Guidance on Diverting Around the Cape of Good Hope to Avoid Suez
The ongoing blockage of the Suez Canal has resulted in ships diverting south to transit around the Cape of Good Hope, potentially taking them through the High Risk Area. It is noted that whilst the threat of Somalia-based piracy is currently suppressed through a combination of military operations, application of BMP 5 and the presence of armed guards, an increase in maritime traffic through the area may present opportunities for Somali Pirate Groups to attack shipping. The consequences of not adopting effective security measures can be severe.
Round Table Shipping Organisations Highlight Key Issues for the Maritime Industry
Leaders of the Round Table of International Shipping Associations - BIMCO, INTERCARGO, International Chamber of Shipping and INTERTANKO - met virtually last week to debate key issues facing the maritime industry today. At the meeting, the associations affirmed the industry’s commitment to universal recognition for seafarers, the decarbonisation of shipping and addressing the threat to shipping from piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
February 2021
BIMCO to develop standard contract for Security Escort Vessel employment
Building on the success of its widely used GUARDCON contract for the employment of security guards on ships, BIMCO is to develop a new standard contract for hiring the services of security escort vessels (SEV).
January 2021
BIMCO push for more cross-industry collaboration
BIMCO has joined the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Well-being and Crew Change, and was encouraged to see the first publication from the Together in Safety initiative. The initiatives signal the need for increased collaboration in the face of great challenges.
BIMCO welcomes Danish move on navy in Gulf of Guinea
BIMCO welcomes the appointment of a Danish Special Representative for Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea, Ambassador Jens-Otto Horslund.
