- Vessels over 24 meters must arrive with a clean hull or undergo in-water cleaning before entering Brazilian waters.
- Operators must implement a Biofouling Management Plan and maintain a Biofouling Record Book.
- Operational compliance began on June 17, 2025, with penalties commencing on February 1, 2026.
Brazil has introduced new biofouling regulations to safeguard its rich marine biodiversity and prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species. These measures, effective from June 17, 2025, mandate that vessels over 24 meters in length entering Brazilian waters must either arrive with a “clean hull” or undergo in-water hull cleaning. Similar requirements apply to vessels operating between Brazil’s domestic marine biogeographic regions, reports a Gard release.
Objectives of the New Regulations
The primary goal of these regulations is to minimize the introduction of non-native species into Brazil’s marine environments, which can disrupt local ecosystems and economies. By aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2023 Biofouling Guidelines (MEPC.378(80)), Brazil aims to standardize biofouling management practices and enhance the sustainability of its maritime activities.
Key Requirements for Compliance
Vessel operators must adhere to the following stipulations:
- Biofouling Management Plan (BFMP): Develop and implement a vessel-specific BFMP that outlines procedures for biofouling control, including inspection schedules and cleaning protocols.
- Biofouling Record Book (BFRB): Maintain a BFRB to document all biofouling management activities, ensuring traceability and accountability.
- Hull Cleanliness Standards: Ensure the vessel’s hull is free from visible biofouling organisms, with allowances only for a slime layer (microfouling) and minimal visible fouling species (macrofouling). This corresponds to a fouling rating of 1 or lower, as defined by the regulation.
- In-Water Hull Cleaning: If excessive fouling is present, operators must request in-water hull cleaning at least 10 days prior to arrival in Brazilian waters, using the prescribed application form.
Domestic Marine Biogeographic Regions
To further protect its diverse marine ecosystems, Brazil has delineated three domestic marine biogeographic regions. Vessels transiting between these regions must comply with additional biofouling management requirements, ensuring that biofouling does not facilitate the transfer of invasive species across different marine environments.
Enforcement and Penalties
While the operational requirements of the new biofouling management regulation took effect on June 17, 2025, the penalty phase will commence on February 1, 2026. This grace period allows vessel operators to adapt to the new routines and procedures. Non-compliance with the regulations may result in sanctions and penalties as outlined by the Brazilian authorities.
Alignment with International Standards
Brazil’s updated biofouling regulations are in line with the IMO’s 2023 Biofouling Guidelines, which provide a globally consistent approach to managing biofouling and minimizing the transfer of invasive aquatic species. The IMO is also working towards developing a legally binding framework for biofouling management, with a draft expected by 2029.
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Source: Gard
