Hong Kong has published Information Note to inform ship operators about the extension of the international convention on the control of harmful anti-fouling systems on ships. The Regulation will be enacted in Hong Kong as well and according to Section 1 , the Secretary for Transport and Housing will appoint a day before the end of this year for the commencement of the new Regulation.
The Regulation implements the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships (AFS Convention) and prohibits the use of organotin compounds in anti-fouling systems of ships for the protection of marine environment. The Regulation applies to Hong Kong registered ships wherever they are and ships within the Hong Kong
waters.
A Hong Kong ship of 400 gross tonnage or above that is engaged in international voyage must have on board a valid International Anti-Fouling System Certificate after the Regulation comes into operation. Shipowners are recommended to replace the Statement of Compliance issued under the AFS Convention by an International Anti-Fouling System Certificate from now on for their ships.
Details of the Regulation can be found on the following website: http://www.legislation.gov.hk/eng/home.htm
Further information may be found by reading the following shipping information note
Source: Hong Kong
