In a key address at the opening of the 49th session of the Facilitation Committee (FAL 49), IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, outlined the critical issues to be discussed and the objectives for the week-long session, running from March 10 to 14, 2025.
In his remarks, Dominguez emphasized the significance of finalizing the new version of the IMO Compendium on Facilitation and Electronic Business. The updated document will incorporate new data sets aimed at accelerating digitalization within the maritime sector, especially focusing on the ship-port interface. Dominguez extended his gratitude to Germany and the Port of Rotterdam for their financial contributions, which are crucial in ensuring the sustainability of this vital project.
A key item on the agenda is the proposal to amend the FAL Convention, particularly with respect to the introduction of mandatory reporting of Advance Passenger Information (API) and Booking Reservation Information (BRI)/Passenger Name Record (PNR) for maritime transport.
Dominguez highlighted the invitation extended to the IMO by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to approve IMO membership in the WCO-hosted “API and BRI/PNR Contact Committee,” signaling greater collaboration between international organizations.
The session will also address the issue of “key workers,” specifically revisiting provisions regarding their status during public health emergencies of international concern—a critical topic given the ongoing global health challenges.
The issue of key workers will also be on our agenda, particularly regarding the revision of the provisions of key workers during a public health emergency of international concern
… said Dominguez.
Furthermore, the Sec-Gen underscored the importance of digital transformation in maritime operations. The session will initiate work on the development of a comprehensive strategy for maritime digitalization. This strategy is expected to be a cornerstone for the future of the IMO’s work in digital innovation.
He also announced plans to revise the guidelines on electronic certificates. The aim is to create a unified framework by preparing a joint FAL-LEG-MEPC-MSC instrument that will consolidate the IMO’s guidance on electronic certificates into a single, comprehensive set of guidelines.
Dominguez expressed confidence that, under the leadership of Committee Chair Watchara Chiemanukulkit of Thailand and Vice-Chair Mohamed AlKaabi of the UAE, the committee would successfully achieve its goals during the session. The leadership will be supported by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Division and other relevant departments.
In conclusion, the Secretary-General invited delegates to participate in an event later today, marking the 60th anniversary of the FAL Convention, a landmark occasion that celebrates decades of progress in facilitating maritime trade and safety.
