Global regulatory framework for fishing vessels safety in force from 24 February 2027

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has confirmed that the 2012 Cape Town Agreement (CTA), the long-awaited global regulatory framework for fishing vessel safety, will enter into force on 24 February 2027. More information is provided in this statutory news.

Information for: Shipyards, suppliers, owners/managers, and flag administrations.

 

Deficiencies in CO2 fire-extinguishing systems

NEED TO KNOW
  • The 2012 Cape Town Agreement (CTA) will enter into force on 24 February 2027.
  • The agreement establishes the minimum global requirements for the design, construction, equipment and
    inspection of fishing vessels of 24 metres and longer.
  • It covers vessel stability and seaworthiness, machinery and electrical systems, fire protection, life‑saving
    appliances, navigational and communication equipment, and structural construction requirements.

Overview of the 2012 Cape Town Agreement

The CTA is an international treaty aimed at improving safety, reducing casualties and enhancing working conditions on board fishing vessels. The CTA will enter into force on 24 February 2027, marking a significant milestone for the safety and sustainability of the global fishing fleet. It establishes the minimum global requirements for the design, construction, equipment and inspection of fishing vessels of 24 metres and
longer (or the equivalent gross tonnage).

The CTA introduces mandatory standards covering vessel stability and seaworthiness, machinery and electrical systems, fire protection, life‑saving appliances, navigational and communication equipment, and structural construction requirements. The CTA builds on earlier instruments – the 1977 Torremolinos Convention and the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol – which never entered into force.

Flag state and port state responsibilities

Once the CTA enters into force, flag administrations that have ratified it must integrate its provisions into their national legislation and ensure that all registered fishing vessels meeting the size threshold comply with its requirements.

Port State Control (PSC) authorities will also be granted authority to inspect foreign fishing vessels to ensure
compliance with the CTA. These inspections may include verification of structural conditions, life-saving appliances, firefighting systems, navigational and communication equipment, and operational readiness.
The CTA therefore introduces a more harmonized global inspection regime – similar to established ship safety
conventions, but tailored specifically to fishing vessels.

What the CTA means for the industry

Once in effect, the agreement will set new expectations for both flag administrations and classification societies,
including DNV. In preparation, DNV has started integrating the CTA requirements into its processes and service delivery to ensure smooth and consistent implementation for our customers. DNV will continue to share further information and guidance as this work progresses.

Recommendations

Shipyards, vessel owners and managers, and flag administrations are encouraged to closely follow upcoming
technical and regulatory developments associated with the implementation of the CTA. Staying informed early on will help ensure a smooth transition as the new requirements are incorporated into survey and certification processes in the months ahead.

DNV will continue to provide guidance and updates throughout the implementation timeline, supporting all
stakeholders as they prepare for the CTA’s entry into force.

References