The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has imposed new restrictions on ship registrations, barring oil tankers and bulk carriers over 15 years old from joining its flag.
The regulation, which came into effect on 3 August 2025, is intended to improve fleet standards and reduce the presence of vessels linked to the so-called “dark fleet” – a group of ships that often operate with limited transparency and may be involved in evading international sanctions.
According to an internal review, 71 per cent of detentions recorded between 2023 and mid-2025 involved ships older than 15 years, prompting the AMP to act.
This development forms part of a broader pre-registration assessment process that evaluates operational risks and potential sanction exposure before ships are accepted into the registry.
In addition to the age cap, the authority has introduced stricter oversight for high-risk vessels. These include quarterly inspections by recognised organisations and enhanced monitoring of Safety Management Systems, as outlined in Resolution 106-003-DGMM.
The AMP stated it is placing greater importance on vessel quality over fleet size, aligning with international safety and environmental standards to support safer and more sustainable maritime operations.
Panama remains the largest ship registry in the world, with more than 8,600 vessels on its books – representing around 15 per cent of global tonnage, according to IHS Markit.
The authority continues to promote fleet renewal by attracting younger, more advanced ships, particularly from Asian shipyards.
The move follows increased international attention on Panama-flagged vessels, especially those thought to be involved in transporting Iranian crude oil in breach of US sanctions. The AMP’s recent steps are part of wider efforts to enhance maritime governance and ensure regulatory compliance.
“By focusing on quality and reinforcing oversight, Panama is reaffirming its commitment to meeting the highest global standards,” a spokesperson said. “These measures will contribute to a safer, more responsible maritime industry.”
