Changes in the Russian Merchant Shipping Code

On September 1, 2024, amendments to the Code of Merchant Shipping of the Russian Federation will come into force.

Definitions of fully autonomous ships and semi-autonomous ships are introduced, and requirements for their operation, crew and technical equipment are set out. Rules for issuing permits for the operation of such vessels and responsibility for their actions are stipulated.

Special personnel on board ships are defined and requirements for their transportation are established.

The institute of technical ship management is introduced, which will allow shipowners to delegate part of their powers to specialized organizations.