INTERCARGO welcomes ratification of Hong Kong Convention
INTERCARGO welcomes the ratification of the IMO’s Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention – HKC).
With Bangladesh, one of the world’s major ship recycling nations, and major flag state Liberia recently adding their names to the list of countries ratifying the HKC, the Convention will now enter into force on 26th June, 2025.
This signifies a huge step in the industry’s drive to ensure ship recycling is carried out in a safe and sustainable way, removing unnecessary risk to human health, safety, and the environment. Ship owners can now be more assured that when their vessels reach the end of their life, they will find a safe and environmentally sound destination for recycling.
We commend Bangladesh and Liberia for ratifying the Convention, which now means it is backed by 22 states, representing just over 45% of the gross tonnage of the world’s merchant shipping. However, it would be even more pleasing to see more Member States ratifying HKC and we encourage those who have not yet backed it to do so as soon as possible for safer, greener, and more sustainable ship recycling for the benefit of the industry and the environment.
