Hong Kong to Publish Ship Recycling Bill Ahead of Global Convention
Legislation to Implement International Recycling Standards Set for March 26 Introduction in LegCo
Hong Kong has taken a significant step toward enforcing global ship recycling standards, with the government announcing the publication of the Merchant Shipping (Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships) Bill in the Gazette on March 21. The bill, aimed at aligning Hong Kong’s regulations with international standards, is scheduled for introduction into the Legislative Council (LegCo) on March 26.
The legislation seeks to formally implement the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC), which was originally adopted on May 15, 2009. The HKC is designed to ensure that ship recycling processes minimize risks to human health, safety, and the environment. Having met the necessary ratification requirements, the convention is set to come into force globally on June 26, 2025.
Aligning with Global Standards
The HKC was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to address the hazards associated with shipbreaking, which has long been criticized for poor labor conditions, health risks, and environmental degradation. The convention mandates shipowners to maintain an inventory of hazardous materials onboard their vessels and requires ship recycling facilities to be certified for compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
In a statement, the Hong Kong government emphasized the importance of the new bill, explaining that although some provisions in existing local legislation share objectives with the HKC, they are insufficient to fully implement its requirements.
“A new ordinance with a new regulation will hence be enacted, with the new ordinance to be enacted first to ensure that it will be in place before the global entry-into-force date,” the government said.
Role of China’s Central Government in Implementation
The government also noted that the Central People’s Government of China is currently considering the ratification of the HKC and will determine its applicability to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Given Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime hub, the adoption of this convention could significantly enhance its reputation in maritime governance and environmental sustainability.
Hong Kong has one of the world’s busiest ports and plays a crucial role in global shipping. The implementation of the HKC in the region would not only reinforce international maritime regulations but also position Hong Kong as a leader in sustainable shipping practices.
The Need for Ship Recycling Legislation
The global shipping industry faces a growing challenge in managing end-of-life vessels. Older ships, often laden with hazardous materials such as asbestos, heavy metals, and toxic paints, require specialized recycling methods to prevent environmental contamination and ensure worker safety.
Currently, much of the world’s shipbreaking takes place in countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, where laborers often work in dangerous conditions with minimal protective measures. The HKC aims to establish globally recognized ship recycling standards, ensuring that vessels are dismantled in an environmentally responsible and safe manner.
Potential Impact on Hong Kong’s Maritime Industry
The enactment of the Merchant Shipping (Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships) Bill is expected to have a significant impact on shipowners, ship recycling facilities, and maritime regulators in Hong Kong. By complying with the HKC, shipowners will be required to maintain a detailed inventory of hazardous materials on their vessels and ensure that ship recycling takes place at certified facilities.
This regulatory shift could also create new opportunities for ship recycling businesses operating within or near Hong Kong, provided they meet the strict environmental and safety standards set by the convention. In turn, this could lead to job creation in the maritime compliance and environmental auditing sectors.
Additionally, the move aligns with Hong Kong’s broader sustainability goals and reinforces its commitment to international environmental protection efforts. The bill is expected to enhance Hong Kong’s status as a responsible maritime jurisdiction, potentially attracting more environmentally conscious shipping businesses.
Looking Ahead
With the LegCo set to deliberate on the bill from March 26, industry stakeholders, environmental groups, and shipping companies will be closely monitoring developments. If passed, the new ordinance will put Hong Kong on track to fully comply with the HKC before its global enforcement date in June 2025.
The move has been widely
welcomed by environmental organizations and maritime professionals who advocate for safer and more sustainable ship recycling practices. However, industry participants will also be keen to understand the specific compliance requirements and any potential cost implications associated with the new regulations.
As Hong Kong moves forward with this critical legislation, the city is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable maritime practices, reinforcing its status as a key player in global shipping governance. The successful implementation of the HKC in Hong Kong could serve as a model for other jurisdictions looking to strengthen their ship recycling regulations in the years to come.
