Industry Leaders Release Enhanced Maritime Security Guidelines

In a landmark move to strengthen global maritime security, six of the world’s most influential maritime industry associations have jointly released an updated and consolidated publication titled Best Management Practices (BMP) for Maritime Security (MS).The contributing organizations—BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA), INTERCARGO, INTERTANKO, and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF)—have long been recognized as standard-bearers in global shipping and maritime safety.

This newly consolidated BMP for Maritime Security brings together a wide spectrum of security protocols and practical guidance designed to safeguard vessels, crews, and cargo in high-risk areas across international waters. The guidelines cover topics ranging from risk assessment and threat identification to crew preparedness and vessel hardening strategies.The initiative represents a strategic alignment of the industry’s collective knowledge and best practices in response to evolving threats such as piracy, armed robbery, terrorism, and cyber intrusions targeting shipping infrastructure.

By harmonizing previous guidance documents and introducing modernized procedures, the publication serves as a vital reference for shipowners, operators, and maritime personnel seeking to fortify security measures and ensure regulatory compliance.Industry leaders have hailed the release as a crucial step in promoting safe passage and operational resilience, particularly in volatile regions such as the Gulf of Guinea, the Red Sea, and the Strait of Malacca.

The publication is now available for download through each association’s website and is expected to become a cornerstone resource for global maritime security planning and training.