Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that new legislation has been approved to regulate hazardous materials in the ship-recycling sector, aiming to promote environmentally sustainable practices and implement the Hong Kong Convention. After the Senate passed the Environmentally Sound Management of Inventory of Hazardous Material on Ships Bill, 2026, the minister emphasized that the law addresses environmental and safety risks linked to ship recycling.

The bill mandates the inspection and certification of ships arriving for recycling and prohibits the presence of hazardous materials identified under the convention. Violators could face seizure and other penalties. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs will coordinate compliance with the International Maritime Organization.

Chaudhry highlighted that Pakistan ranks among the top three ship recycling nations, handling nearly one-third of global activity, and stressed the need to align local practices with international standards. With Pakistan becoming the 23rd country to accede to the Hong Kong Convention, the legislation reflects a commitment to climate action and sustainable development, enhancing Pakistan’s global credibility in the ship recycling industry.