IMO twelfth session of the Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments - Statement on recent attacks on ships in the Red Sea

During the week of 20–24 July 2026, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) held the twelfth session of the Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 12), where discussions focused on both the deteriorating security situation in the Red Sea and a number of significant regulatory developments relating to Port State Control (PSC).

Opening the session, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez strongly condemned the recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and once again emphasised that the safety and welfare of seafarers must remain the industry's foremost priority. He urged ship operators to undertake thorough risk assessments before transiting the region and renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all seafarers who remain held captive following piracy attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The IMO also expressed concern over the growing environmental risks arising from attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and previous incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, confirming that it will continue to monitor developments closely and provide assistance where necessary.

Alongside discussions on maritime security, the IMO Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 12) progressed several important regulatory initiatives:

• Port State Control (PSC)

The Sub-Committee advanced draft amendments to the 2025 Procedures for Port State Control (Resolution A.1206(34)), with the revised 2027 edition expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028. The proposed amendments include:

• New guidance for machinery, electrical equipment and maintenance inspections.
• Revised qualification requirements for Port State Control Officers (PSCOs).
• A new entrant training manual to promote greater consistency in PSC inspections.
• Harmonized Survey Guidelines (HSSC)

The Sub-Committee also progressed amendments to the 2025 Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC) (Resolution A.1207(34)), which will also be expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028. The proposed changes include:

• Updates reflecting recently adopted IMO requirements.
• New provisions for pilot transfer arrangements and remote surveys.
• Transfer of Ships Between Flag States

The Sub-Committee finalised draft amendments to MSC/Circ.1140–MEPC/Circ.424, introducing a notification mechanism for ships deregistered before obtaining a new flag State. The amendments are expected to be considered for approval by MSC 112 and MEPC 85 later in 2026.