Number of falsely flagged ships doubles in the space of 22 months

The UK is leading a bid to stamp out falsely flagged ships at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). 

In a submission to the IMO’s legal committee, backed by 21 other countries, the UK has counted that the number of falsely flagged vessels has more than doubled to 223 ships in the space of just 22 months. Tankers and general cargo ships are the worst offenders.

“This is clear evidence that there is an adverse impact from fraudulent ship registration and fraudulent registries of ships in terms of maritime safety, security, environmental consequences and most importantly the human element, especially seafarers on board ships which are fraudulently registered,” the paper said.

The investigation suggested that many flag states were under-resourced, while the decision by some states to outsource flag administration was also seen as a reason for soaring number of falsely flagged ships. 

The UK said guidelines are needed to assist flags and developing states in improving registration quality and standards, thereby potentially preventing fraud.

Ahead of last year’s meeting of its legal committee, the secretariat at the IMO warned about two shipping registries it deems are fraudulent. Flags being administered allegedly on behalf of Guyana and Eswatini came in for criticism.