- New Tanker Insurance Rule Hits Russian Shadow Fleet in the Baltic.
- Baltic Crackdown Begins as Germany and Sweden Demand Tanker Insurance Proof.
- Fehmarn Belt Rule Targets Uninsured Tankers Amid Shadow Fleet Concerns.
German authorities have introduced a new requirement that mandates eastbound tankers passing through the Fehmarn Belt in the western Baltic Sea to reveal their insurance coverage for oil pollution damage. This regulation, which takes effect on July 1, is part of a larger European initiative aimed at addressing the Russian shadow fleet that operates under questionable standards, reports gCaptain.
Targeting Questionable Practices in the Baltic
The goal of this move is to close the gaps that allow vessels to sidestep reputable insurers and European ports, which raises serious concerns about their safety and the potential environmental risks they pose.
Sweden has joined Germany in rolling out this initiative at the same time, highlighting a coordinated effort in the region. This new rule is specifically designed to boost transparency and accountability among oil tankers navigating the Baltic Sea.
Strengthening Surveillance and Regional Cooperation
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder emphasised the significance of enhanced monitoring in the region: “Ascertaining the insurance status through the transport control centres helps us fill another gap in our view of the situation. The more complete the picture, the sooner we can cooperate with our partner countries in the Baltic Sea region to take appropriate measures, perhaps even leading to inclusion on the list of sanctioned vessels.”
Diplomatic Push for Maritime Safety
Echoing the same sentiment, Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated: “This policy would further intensify the coordination with our friends and partners in the region,” to: “increase pressure on the Russian shadow fleet and protect the Baltic Sea habitat.”
Ship Safety Checks and Sanction Risk
When vessels submit their documents, the Ship Safety Division will take a close look at them. If anything seems off, it could lead to:
- Monitoring of vessels across Europe
- Interventions from the flag state
- Possible addition to sanctions lists if the vessels fit certain criteria
This approach is a direct reaction to the threats posed by the Russian shadow fleet, which mainly includes older oil tankers that often resort to unsafe methods to evade international sanctions.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: gCaptain
