INTERCARGO-member fleets outperform on safety and compliance

(Posted on 17/07/25)

Dry bulk carriers entered with the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) continue to demonstrate stronger performance than the global fleet average on safety and compliance, according to the Association’s latest Benchmarking Report. The report highlights meaningful differences across the sector, with significant variations in inspection outcomes, operational risk and regulatory performance.

INTERCARGO-member ships consistently show a lower incidence of regulatory deficiencies and detentions compared with the global fleet.

“These results show that quality is measurable,” said John Xylas, Chairman of INTERCARGO. “Responsible, quality operators are delivering safer, more compliant ships, and benchmarking helps identify strengths, highlights areas for improvement and promotes operational integrity throughout the industry.”

The report also identifies continued disparities in class and flag performance. Some parts of the global fleet remain consistently linked to higher levels of risk exposure and weaker inspection outcomes. These trends reinforce the importance of transparency, strong oversight, and data-informed decision-making in ship operations and management.

INTERCARGO also notes regional shifts in enforcement activity, with some Port State Control regimes taking a more active approach to inspections and detentions. These developments underline the importance of consistent and equitable Port State Control.

The Benchmarking Report draws on a range of public and commercial data sources. By identifying trends and supporting greater transparency, the Association seeks to strengthen safety, compliance and performance across the global dry bulk sector.

INTERCARGO convened for the first time in 1980 in London and has been participating with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993. The Association promotes its members’ positions to IMO, as well as to other shipping and international industry fora, having free and fair competition as a principle.