LIBERIA TAKES STEPS TO RATIFY AND IMPLEMENT IMO 2010 HNS PROTOCOL
The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) has commenced preparations toward the ratification and subsequent implementation of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2010 Protocol on Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS).
As part of the process, LiMA on September 16, 2026, hosted a stakeholders’ engagement meeting at its headquarters in Monrovia to raise awareness about the Protocol and discuss the mechanisms and requirements for its effective implementation in Liberia.
Speaking at the opening of the engagement, the Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessel Registration and Safety, Mr. John F. Harvey, said the meeting was necessary because Liberia is preparing to ratify and implement the IMO HNS Protocol 2010.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that stakeholders across Liberia’s maritime sector understand the objectives of the Protocol, its implications, and the processes required for its implementation.
Mr. Harvey encouraged participants to take the engagement seriously, noting that the Protocol is expected to come into full force in November 2027.
“It is important that all relevant stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities as Liberia moves toward the ratification and implementation of this important international instrument,” Mr. Harvey said.
In remarks, Mr. Tarnue Kpangbala, Technical Officer at Liberia’s Permanent Mission to the International Maritime Organization, described the HNS Protocol as a critical instrument for strengthening the protection of marine ecosystems while supporting the safety and sustainability of global maritime trade.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among government institutions, maritime operators, industry stakeholders, and other relevant partners to ensure that Liberia is adequately prepared for the implementation of the Protocol.
The IMO HNS Protocol establishes an international liability and compensation regime for damage caused by hazardous and noxious substances transported by sea. Its implementation is intended to strengthen preparedness, liability arrangements, and compensation mechanisms in the event of incidents involving HNS cargoes.
The stakeholders’ engagement brought together representatives from relevant government institutions, maritime industry stakeholders, and other key partners to discuss Liberia’s preparedness and the way forward toward ratification and implementation.
Source : LiMA
