Intercargo, representing the interests of dry bulk shipowners and operators, has found a general lack of information and understanding concerning important changes to MARPOL Annex V for port reception facilities that enter into force on 1 January 2013.

The new requirements, which will place additional planning and reporting responsibilities on shippers and terminal operators, could also cause confusion, delays, contractual disagreements and possibly action by Port State Control authorities. The lack of appropriate facilities to discharge dry cargo residues and hold washing water is generally acknowledged but with few apparent additions to facilities, compliance of the regulations by the various stakeholders will be difficult.