Major ship registries unite to enhance maritime safety, security, and environmental protection through collaboration since 2021.
The International Flag Administrations (IFA), established by the world's three largest ship registries—Liberia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Panama—has been actively evaluating the global maritime agenda since its inception in 2021.
This pioneering initiative aims to provide a formal platform for flag states to collaborate on critical issues, including maritime safety and security, marine environmental protection, the welfare of seafarers, and the development and implementation of international maritime regulations.
Historically, flag states have lacked a dedicated global platform for interaction. The IFA seeks to address this gap by fostering cooperation among its members to devise effective solutions to shared global challenges.
A key priority for the IFA has been information sharing. In this regard, an integrated online database was launched in 2024, enhancing capabilities under the Registry Information Sharing Agreement (RISC). This database serves as a vital tool, providing swift access to information about vessels that violate regulations or engage in suspicious activities, thereby facilitating consultations among subscribing flag states.
Looking ahead, one of the IFA's goals is to apply for advisory status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to play a more active role in shaping international maritime policies.
The founding representatives of the IFA include Alfonso Castillero, CEO of the Liberia International Ship and Corporate Registry; Bill Gallagher, Senior Deputy Commissioner of the Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administration; and Alexander De Gracia, Vice President of the Panama Maritime Authority.
In a joint statement, the founding representatives expressed, “IFA brings together the most effective flag states representing over 40% of the world’s gross tonnage, promoting maritime safety, security, environmental protection, the welfare of seafarers, and practical and globally harmonized rules and regulations. Shipping is a global industry, and maritime regulations must also be global.”
