We have received the information regarding the amended Marine Environment Protection Law from the local correspondent, Oasis P&I Services Company Limited.

The amended law has come into effect on 1 January 2024. It institutionally upgrades and strengthens all aspects of the prevention and control of pollution from vessels into the sea. The major changes relating to Owners are summarised as follows;

1. Some requirements of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments are converted into the law for prevention of invasion of exotic organisms
2. Enhanced duties and obligations are imposed to shippers, cargo owners and agent of pollution-hazardous cargo
3. Enhanced requirements regarding the management of pollution from vessels
4. The management of hazardous materials of vessels are added
5. Vessels are encouraged to use clean energy and shore power
6. Establishment of Pollutant Emission Control Areas
7. The law imposes higher penalty for breaches of the provisions

For more details, please find the attached circular