MSAF on registration of second hand ships

THE Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has told Fijian businesses not to buy ships or vessels that are more than 20 years old.

MSAF states under the Ships Registration Act 2013, a prior written approval of the Minister of Transport is required for the registration of second hand ships that are over 20 years old that will be used for trade and commercial purposes within Fiji.

“It is strongly advised that a person and or entity must comply with paragraph two above prior to entering into any form of agreement in relation to the procurement/ purchase and importation of a subject ship for commercial purpose,” states MSAF’s manager Ships Inspection, Sesoni Komaisoso in an advisory issued on November 17.

MSAF has also stated that the law requires that before a ship is built or an existing ship is purchased or substantially altered, the owner or intending owner shall contact MSAF and provide certain information which would allow the authority to carry out an initial assessment of the ship.

“Once the above is complied with, the authority will thereafter seek approval from the Minister of Transport, before procurement and importation can proceed.”

“The authority and the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism & Transport, will not be responsible for any dealings entered into by any person or entity for the procurement and importation into Fiji of ships for commercial purpose, that are 20 years old or more, which do not comply with the above-mentioned and do not have the minister’s prior written approval.”