- Panama Maritime Authority updates MMC-217 for STS operations on Panamanian-flagged oil tankers.
- The revised plan must include detailed vessel, cargo, and operation information for flag notifications.
- Notifications to be submitted via E‑Segumar at least 48 hours before operations, with records kept for three years.
- ClassNK approval and on-board verification of the updated plan is required at the next IOPP survey..
The Panama Maritime Authority has revised Merchant Marine Circular MMC-217, setting updated requirements for ship-to-ship (STS) operations involving Panamanian-flagged oil tankers. These changes cover applicability, additional notification requirements, and plan approval procedures, aiming to improve operational safety and regulatory compliance, as reported by ClassNK.
Updated Requirements for STS Operations Plan
Under the revised MMC-217, all Panamanian-flagged oil tankers of 150 gross tonnage and above engaged in ship-to-ship (STS) oil cargo transfers, excluding bunkering, operations within Panama’s waters under Resolution J.D. No. 038-2022, and certain offshore platform or emergency operations, must comply with updated operational and notification requirements.
The STS Operations Plan must now include detailed information for transfer notifications to the Flag Administration, such as vessel particulars, estimated arrival time, operation location and mode (at anchor or underway), type and quantity of oil, expected duration, and contact details of each vessel’s Designated Person Ashore (DPA). It must also confirm that the vessel holds an STS Operations Plan in line with MARPOL Annex I, Regulation 41. The updated plan, approved by ClassNK’s Hull Department, must be kept on board.
For all STS operations on or after 6 August 2025, operators are required to submit notifications via the E‑Segumar Platform at least 48 hours in advance. An acknowledgement from the Panama Maritime Authority must be retained electronically on board for at least three years. Any significant change in arrival time or cancellation must be promptly reported to the Administration.
ClassNK surveyors will verify the approved plan is on board during the first annual, intermediate, or renewal survey of the International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP) after the implementation date. Shipowners or management companies must request plan approval in advance, with applicable fees, and submit documentation through ClassNK’s online application system or regional Plan Approval Centers. Failure to provide timely notification or maintain the updated plan may result in administrative measures under Panama’s maritime regulations.
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Source: ClassNK
