International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships, 2001 (AFS Convention) - 2023 Edition

This third edition of the AFS Convention publication includes the updated text of the AFS Convention, including the amendments to annexes 1 and 4 concerning the introduction of controls on cybutryne and other consequential amendments that entered into force on 1 January 2023, and the revised guidelines that support the implementation of the amended Convention.”

As a specialised agency of the United Nations, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the global standard-setting authority for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping. Its main role is to create a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, universally adopted and universally implemented.

In other words, its role is to create a level playing field so that ship operators cannot address their financial issues by simply cutting corners and compromising on safety, security and environmental performance. This approach also encourages innovation and efficiency.

Shipping is a truly international industry, and it can only operate effectively if the regulations and standards are themselves agreed, adopted and implemented on an international basis. And IMO is the forum at which this process takes place.