Panama Maritime Authority on 23rd May issued a press release to strengthening its requirements for ship-to-ship (STS) oil transfer operations involving tankers registered under its flag. The objective is to shut the door on the so-called “shadow fleet” and reinforce the country’s standing as a responsible flag State.
The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA), through its Directorate General of Merchant Marine (DGMM), issued Resolution No. 106-035-DGMM of 2025 (published in Official Gazette 30271–A on May 6, 2025), which introduces stricter controls and mandatory traceability for offshore STS transfers of hydrocarbons.
“This initiative addresses the growing use of opaque vessels to circumvent international sanctions, transport undeclared crude, or evade environmental safety regulations—practices commonly associated with what is known as the shadow or dark fleet,” explained DGMM Acting Director, Engineer Rina Berrocal.
Now all Panama flag tanker vessel are required to send advance notification regarding the upcoming STS 48 hours in advance.
Further PMA has mandated revision of STS plan for the vessel to have the new reporting requirement in the STS manual.
As STS manual is required to be approved by the RO and so operators are advised to amend the STS manual and get it duly approved.
In case any assistance is required then do contact us on info@amberships.com and we shall be happy to assist operators to revisit and revise the STS plan.