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.
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.
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