As global trade routes expand and the demand for efficient vessel registration grows, the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry (BMSR) has emerged as a competitive and trusted flag state on the international stage. Ranked among the top 30 ship registries worldwide and the third-largest in the Caribbean, BMSR offers shipowners streamlined registration processes, 24/7 technical support, and an unwavering commitment to international compliance. In this exclusive interview with Robban Assafina, CEng MRINA, Giovanni Ciniglio, CEO of BMSR, discusses the registry’s unique strengths, its expanding footprint in regions like Europe and the Middle East, and the strategic vision driving its continued global growth.
Can you provide us with a brief overview of the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry and its role in the global maritime industry?
The Barbados Maritime Ship Registry (BMSR), is the 3rd largest Caribbean register and 27th globally, plays a vital role in the global maritime industry by providing a comprehensive and efficient framework for the registration and regulation of vessels under the Barbadian flag. The registry acts as the official flag state authority for Barbadian-registered vessels, ensuring compliance with international maritime laws and conventions, including safety, security, and environmental standards.
BMSR conducts rigorous inspections, audits, and assessments to ensure that vessels meet the necessary safety and operational standards. This includes adherence to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations.
It also collaborates with other maritime authorities and organizations globally to promote best practices, share information, and enhance maritime safety and security and offer a reputable registry with favourable regulatory conditions, attracting shipowners and managers from all around the world, especially in Europe and the Middle East.
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What are the key features and advantages of registering with Barbados Maritime Ship Registry, and what sets it apart from other registries around the world?
The BMSR is widely recognised for its streamlined and efficient vessel registration process, which minimises delays and provides timely services to shipowners. We register vessels within a two-hour timeframe, available at any time and on any day of the year.
Furthermore, we offer technical assistance on a 24/7 basis, ensuring that vessels can operate seamlessly whenever an issue is identified on board. Since the establishment of the ranking, Barbados has maintained white flag status in the Paris MoU and has been qualified for the USCG Qualship 21 for several consecutive years.
Our commitment to delivering prompt and efficient service remains steadfast, without compromising quality and standards.
What factors make Barbados Maritime Ship Registry a preferred choice for ship owners, and how do you tailor your services to meet their needs?
As a flag State, our priority is to ensure that vessels are always in compliance with international conventions, while also being attentive to the needs of our shipowners. Our expertise in compliance is essential for understanding shipowners' needs, enabling us to provide them with the best solutions that adhere to regulations. We prefer to see ourselves as advocates who assist our clients rather than as a police force that penalises them.
How do you view the exposure and presence of the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry in the Middle East? How important is this region for your growth?
The Middle East functions as a vital maritime hub, characterised by essential shipping routes linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. This advantageous location provides the BMSR with the opportunity to attract vessels operating both within and beyond the region, significantly expanding its global reach. As the Middle East pursues economic diversification and experiences rising trade volumes, there is an increasing demand for shipping services. BMSR is well-positioned to leverage this growth by appealing to shipowners in need of competitive registration and operational support. To achieve this, BMSR is committed to enhancing its presence in the Middle East through strategic partnerships, active participation in industry events, and focused outreach initiatives. By highlighting its distinct advantages and fostering relationships throughout the region, BMSR aspires to become the preferred registry for shipowners seeking a reputable and efficient option within this critical maritime centre.
Ceng MRINA Giovanni Ciniglio
Barbados Maritime Registry has recently been ranked among the top 30 largest ship registries worldwide and the third-largest in the Caribbean. How significant is this achievement for the registry, and what do you believe contributed to this success?
Being recognised as one of the largest ship registries enhances the credibility and dependability of the BMSR within the maritime sector. This acknowledgment has the potential to attract more shipowners and operators in search of reputable registration options.
Furthermore, this ranking boosts BMSR's visibility on the global stage, making it more attractive to prospective clients and partners, and facilitating networking opportunities and collaborations with other maritime authorities and organisations. The success of BMSR can be attributed to several key factors, including its strong commitment to international maritime conventions and a robust regulatory framework.
Additionally, the registry’s streamlined and efficient registration process appeals to shipowners by enabling quick and hassle-free registration, a vital aspect for attracting vessels. Moreover, BMSR has likely implemented proactive marketing strategies and outreach initiatives designed to promote its services in international markets, thereby raising awareness of the advantages of registering in Barbados.
Looking ahead, what opportunities do you see for further growth and development for the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry? What are the main targets you’ve set for the future?
Looking forward, the BMSR offers several promising avenues for growth and development. Given the rising shipping activities in regions such as Asia and Europe, BMSR can strategically attract new shipowners in search of reliable registration options. Forming partnerships in these areas could facilitate market entry and stimulate further expansion. Additionally, the introduction of enhanced services, such as electronic certificates and online application processes, will provide prompt and comprehensive solutions for shipowners, reinforcing BMSR's position as a one-stop registry.
A primary objective for the future is to set a specific target for increasing the number of vessels registered under the Barbadian flag over the next few years. This initiative will focus on attracting a diverse array of vessel types.
Furthermore, BMSR aims to participate in more international maritime conferences and exhibitions to strengthen its brand recognition within the global maritime community. Above all, there is a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement in the registration process, with goals to reduce processing times and enhance customer satisfaction ratings.
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:To read the full content, click on the following link Robban Assafina, Issue 97, May/ June 2025, Maritime Host, pg. 71 |
