Major ship-recycling countries in Asia have taken steps to enhance compliance and safety in ship recycling across the region, in line with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention).
Building on previous IMO initiatives, a subregional workshop in Bangkok, Thailand (11-13 November) aimed to equip 29 government officials from Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, Türkiye and Viet Nam with the knowledge and skills needed to ratify, implement and enforce the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) and related Guidelines.
The HKC, which entered into force on 26 June 2025, aims to ensure that ships are recycled at the end of their operational lives without putting human health or the environment at risk. It sets out clear responsibilities for shipowners, shipyards, recycling facilities, and national authorities in flag, port and recycling States.
Understanding the Hong Kong Convention
Through case studies, presentations and interactive discussions, participants were introduced to the Convention’s technical requirements and the obligations of key stakeholders. They also explored the steps needed for accession, common challenges in implementation and approaches to ensuring compliance.
The workshop focused on building practical experience for early implementation and enforcement of the Convention, with participants exchanging lessons learned and best practices. Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening port State control (PSC) inspections and raising awareness in countries that have yet to ratify the Convention.
Of those represented, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India and Türkiye, which together constitute over 90% of the world’s ship recycling capacity, have already acceded to the HKC, while the Philippines is progressing towards accession.
Empowering women
In support of IMO’s commitment to gender equality, a representative of the Women in Maritime Association (WIMA Asia) highlighted regional challenges and opportunities for empowering women in the maritime sector.
The session also showcased national and community-led initiatives from WIMA Asia chapters in Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam, including mangrove restoration, support for fisherfolk and coastal clean-ups. Participants identified opportunities for future collaboration, particularly in ship recycling, environmental protection and maritime leadership.
The workshop was funded by the People’s Republic of China through IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) and hosted by Thailand’s Marine Department. It forms part of IMO’s ongoing support to major ship-recycling countries worldwide.
