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- Create Date October 1, 2026
- Last Updated October 1, 2026
TECH NOTE 001-2026 MMN-11/2024
The purpose of this technical note is to report on the new Merchant Marine Notice establishing a
mandatory prior risk assessment for ships wishing to register in the Panama Maritime Registry.
The precheck evaluates the vessel, its owner, operator, and charterer to ensure compliance with
international safety, environmental, and legal standards, including Ballast Water Management Convention
requirements, in accordance with Panamanian law.
The process applies to new registrations and certain ownership or charter changes, must be requested in
advance through a Panamanian law firm or consulate, and is valid for 15 days. Authorities may approve,
reject, or impose conditions, and eligibility does not guarantee final registration.
To strengthen fleet quality and reduce detentions, Panama will not accept oil tankers or bulk carriers over
15 years of age, with limited exceptions (including certain bulk carriers up to 20 years and specific oil
tankers operating domestically under conditions).
The Notice has been updated February 2026, including modifications to paragraphs 8, and 9 to reinforce
age restrictions and compliance requirements.
8. As part of the policies implemented by the Panama Registry to purge its fleet, aiming to improve both
operational performance and reduce the risk of detentions, the Republic of Panama will not accept oil
tankers or bulk carriers over fifteen (15) years of age for registration. Exceptions may apply in cases of
bulk carriers up to twenty (20) years of age subject to the satisfactory results of internal risk assessment.
9. In the case of oil tankers intended to operate within the jurisdictional waters of the Republic of
Panama, age-related registration restrictions may be waived up to twenty five (25) years of age, subject
to the submission of its valid Operating License issued by the Ports and Ancillary Industries General Directorate for existing Companies. For new Companies a sworn affidavit declaration for the intended
service duly apostilled