Since 2024, nickel ore exports from the Philippines and the Solomon Islands have increased significantly. As previously notified in Japan P&I News No.1351-1 dated 13 February 2026, severe concerns have arisen regarding the safe carriage of such cargo, including liquefaction. The International Group of P&I Clubs (IG), in conjunction with INTERCARGO and UK cargo expert Roxburgh, has issued a Circular.

Key Risks:
• High Liquefaction Risk: Nickel ore loaded from these regions tends to retain moisture internally, even if it appears dry, and poses a severe risk of liquefaction or cargo shift during the voyage.
• Unreliable Certification: Shippers' moisture control and sampling procedures may be inadequate, and the reliability of the TML (Transportable Moisture Limit) and moisture content certificates provided by shippers can be questionable.
• Restrictions on Surveyors: Shippers may refuse to permit surveyors appointed on behalf of Members to attend inspections.

Recommended Preventative Measures:
• Pre-Fixing Due Diligence: Prior to fixing a charterparty, request the shipper to submit detailed sampling and moisture control procedures, along with approval documents from the competent authority.
• Response to Rain: Suspend loading operations during rain and reject affected barges until safety is proven.
• Voyage Inspections: Periodically conduct daily cargo inspections during the voyage to check for signs of instability, such as a reduction in height, surface water or cargo shift.
• Appointing a Surveyor: To assist the Master, please consider appointing an independent surveyor in advance of loading.

For further details, please refer to the attached document.

Members are requested to notify the Club in advance when planning to fix or charter a ship, or when a ship has been ordered, to load nickel ore from Indonesia, the Philippines or the Solomon Islands. Please note that failure to notify the Club in advance may prejudice your Club Cover.