Hong Kong Convention On Ship Recycling To Take Effect Globally in 2025

The Hong Kong Convention (HKC), adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on May 15, 2009, aims to ensure that ship recycling is conducted safely without posing risks to human health or the environment. The HKC will enter into force globally on June 26, 2025.

Hong Kong’s Role in Implementing the HKC

Legislation Update: While some local laws align with the HKC, a new ordinance and regulations will be enacted to fully implement its requirements.

Shipping Industry Compliance:

• Hong Kong ranks as the fourth-largest shipping register with over 2,300 ships.

• The government aims to ensure full compliance to promote sustainable ship recycling.

Government Consultation & Support:

• The Panel on Economic Development of LegCo and the Hong Kong Fleet Operation Advisory Committee have been consulted.

• Both bodies support the proposal.

• The Bill will be introduced in LegCo on March 26.

Global Adoption & Entry Into Force

By the end of 2024, 24 nations had ratified the HKC. However, Bangladesh and Liberia triggered the official entry-into-force date (June 26, 2025) in May 2023.

A spokesman for the Transport and Logistics Bureau emphasized:
“Hong Kong is the fourth largest shipping register in the world with more than 2.300 ships. We aim to ensure that these ships will fully comply with the requirements of the HKC, which is conducive to promoting sustainable development for ships that have reached the end of their operating life and protection of workers and the environment in the context of ship recycling. We believe the shipping industry and the public will welcome the enactment of such a Bill.”

With the HKC set to take effect globally in 2025, Hong Kong is taking proactive steps to align its regulations with international standards, ensuring safe and environmentally responsible ship recycling.