Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the approval of new legislation aimed at regulating hazardous materials in the ship recycling sector and promoting environmentally sustainable ship breaking practices. The legislation is designed to advance the implementation of the Hong Kong Convention.
According to Press Information Department, the Environmentally Sound Management of Inventory of Hazardous Material on Ships Bill, 2026, was passed by the Senate following its approval by the National Assembly. The bill is intended to facilitate the implementation of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009, by addressing environmental, occupational health, and safety risks linked to ship recycling.
The minister highlighted that the legislation ensures that hazardous waste from ship recycling is managed sustainably. The law prohibits hazardous materials identified under the convention, mandates inspection and certification of ships, and imposes strict penalties for violations. Ships arriving in Pakistani waters for recycling will be subject to mandatory surveys, inspections, and certification of their Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Non-compliant ships could face severe penalties, including seizure and removal from Pakistani waters.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs will act as the national focal point for coordination, implementation, and reporting to the International Maritime Organization, ensuring compliance with the convention. Pakistan is among the top three ship recycling nations, handling nearly one-third of global ship recycling activity, which places significant responsibility on the country to ensure safe and transparent recycling practices.
The ship recycling industry in Gadani, established in the 1980s, remains crucial for the national economy and employment, necessitating alignment with international environmental, labor, and safety standards. Pakistan has become the 23rd country to accede to the Hong Kong Convention, reaffirming its commitment to green and safe ship recycling while enhancing Gadani’s global standing in the industry.
Two complementary legal frameworks have been developed to implement the convention at both provincial and federal levels. The Balochistan Assembly enacted the Balochistan Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships Act, 2025, in November last year. The new legislation reflects Pakistan’s broader commitment to climate action, hazardous waste control, and sustainable industrial development. It also supports Pakistan’s transition towards a circular economy and contributes to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The minister stressed that the legislation would enhance Pakistan’s international credibility, protect livelihoods linked to the ship recycling sector, improve competitiveness, and ensure fair and predictable enforcement of environmental and safety standards.