“The reality is that new IMO regulations come into effect on 1 January 2020 and the international shipping industry should comply with them”, Esben Poulsson, Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), said in his interview with the Russian Shipping portal (PortNews Media Group). He emphasized that new restrictions on using high-sulphur fuel will not apply to vessels equipped with exhaust gas treatment systems.
According to him, “there is a number of crucial issues that have not been fully resolved yet”. Among the primary concerns are the issues of safety and compatibility of fuel mixtures with sulphur content of 0.50% and continuing uncertainty about the prices and availability of compatible types of fuel in each port worldwide.
ICS has issued the Guidance to Shipping Companies and Crews on Compliance with the 2020 ‘Global Sulphur Cap’ that takes into account IMO recommendations. It is intended to help shipowners to fully implement the new international regulations.
The Guidance is available here >>>>
“We expect certain issues to arise in the process of fleet operation. However, we hope they will be resolved basing on the gained experience”, summarized Esben Poulsson.
Full interview is available in Russian at the Russian Shipping portal >>>>