The Panamanian Ship Registry has announced it will no longer accept the registration of oil tankers and bulk carriers that are older than 15 years. The flag state stated the move is intended to optimize the operational performance of its fleet, minimise the risk of detentions, and prevent the entry of vessels from the so-called “ghost fleet.”
The decision responds to an analysis of inspection and detention data, which showed that 71 per cent of detentions of Panamanian-flagged vessels between 2023 and the first half of 2025 involved bulk carriers, general cargo vessels, and oil tankers older than fifteen years.
Panama, as a flag state, said it maintains ongoing monitoring of its fleet and makes adjustments to increase its compliance levels. In line with this, the registry has also activated other oversight mechanisms.
Deficient vessels will now be subject to additional inspections every three months by their recognized organisation. Additional verification of a ship's safety management system will also be carried out, with the possibility of increasing the frequency of these checks if non-conformities are identified.
The registry described the changes as "proactive actions" that prioritise quality over quantity and will ensure the Panamanian fleet complies with international regulations.