The HKC has now met the required criteria for its entry into force and shall come into effect on 26th June 2025. Pursuant to this:
- All new ships will be required to carry an approved Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM Part I) and an International Certificate on IHM.
- All existing ships must comply by 26th June 2030, or before proceeding for recycling, whichever is earlier.
- All ships covered under the Convention must be recycled only at ship recycling facilities holding a valid Document of Authorization to conduct Ship Recycling (DASR).
For Indian-flagged ships already issued with a Statement of Compliance (SOC)—either Interim or Full-Term—by authorized Recognized Organizations (ROs) on behalf of the Flag Administration, and with validity extending beyond 26th June 2025, the SOC must be replaced with an International Certificate on IHM in accordance with the Convention requirements.
To facilitate a smooth transition for ships that are already in compliance with the Convention requirements and possess a valid SOC, this Directorate hereby permits the Recognized Organizations to administratively convert such SOCs into the International Certificate on IHM without requiring an additional shipboard inspection, provided that:
- The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM Part I) has been properly maintained and updated as per the applicable requirements; and
- The International Certificate on IHM is issued on or before 26th June 2025, carrying the following annotation:
- “This certificate is effective from 26th June 2025 and replaces the previously issued SOC number [XXXX], dated [XXXX].”
Recognized Organizations are instructed to adhere to the above directions for the timely and efficient conversion of SOCs to Convention certificates.
Shipowners and Technical Managers of Indian-flagged ships in possession of valid SOCs beyond 26th June 2025 are advised to coordinate with their respective ROs to ensure completion of the administrative conversion before the HKC’s entry into force.