Russia plans new maritime authority to tighten ship oversight

Russia’s Ministry of Transport has proposed establishing a Maritime Administration of the Russian Federation to coordinate and centralize oversight of the country’s maritime activities.

The initiative follows instructions from Russian President Vladimir Putin, under which the ministry has drafted legislation aimed at consolidating management in the commercial shipping sector, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

The proposed Maritime Administration would be responsible for coordinating key areas of maritime activity and strengthening state oversight of Russia’s merchant fleet.

The ministry also plans to establish a comprehensive monitoring system for Russian vessels operating in international waters. The system would provide authorities with information on vessels’ locations and technical condition, as well as the composition and staffing of their crews.

The monitoring framework is also expected to track compliance with labor regulations and interactions between Russian vessels and foreign maritime administrations.

By Vafa Guliyeva