The latest news from around the world on regulatory issues and legislation affecting the boating industry including taxes, trade tariffs, standards and environomental restrictions.
Regulatory Issues and Legislation
Six US states object to NARW Vessel Strike Reduction Rule
But new study shows the North Atlantic Right Whale population could be stabilising
New Italian Nautical Code approved after 4.5-year wait
The new code includes simplifications for large yachts, support for social boating and rules for marine equipment
ICOMIA, EBI launch International Standard Charter Terms and Conditions
The move can be seen as a continuation of Yacht-Pool’s Faircharter Contract
Greece exempts small boats from shipping, luxury taxes
New ruling announced last week applies to boats under 7m
Thailand relaxes rules to attract more superyachts, cruise ships
New measure supports the government’s policy by targeting affluent foreign tourists
Canadian trade associations respond to government initiative exploring mandatory PFD wear
Transport Canada public consultation said to be “fundamentally flawed” and “skewed in favour of mandatory lifejacket wear”
Greece introduces online transit log for foreign vessels
New procedure applies to private recreational boats over 7m in length
Saudi Red Sea Authority issues first yacht regulations
The ultimate goal is environmental protection, sustainability, and adherence to all safety requirements
Balearic government to review decree regulating boat rentals
The review will address illegal boat rentals and rentals without the necessary qualifications
Bipartisan bill to protect Right Whale introduced in US Senate
The bill is being lauded by the recreational marine industry and other stakeholders
ABYC publishes updated build and repair standards
Free webinar on August 14 to review updated standards and available compliance resources in order to meet MY2026 requirements
Biden weighs in on AGOA as SA exports under spotlight in Washington
US President urges Congress to reauthorise African Growth and Opportunity Act
More Regulatory News
NSW boating licenses to increase up to 88%
Transport for NSW announces “significant” increase in boating fees
US senators push updated AGOA bill with implications for SA boatbuilding
EBI reaches out to EU assembly voters on boat sector issues and hurdles
EU to create order in the chaos of Europe’s boater license rules
US vessel speed rule moves to next step
NOAA official tours Miami Boat Show, receives speed restriction rule briefing from NMMA
Canadian government aims to ban ICE vehicles by 2035
EU extends suspension of US import duties until March 2025
US representatives ask NOAA to suspend right whale rule action
Misunderstanding on both sides of proposed whale safety rule
US right whale rule likely delayed until next year
Similar data, different results: calculating compliance in US whale speed zones
US Congressional Boating Caucus receives right whale update
SA builders await news on AGOA as president weighs in on trade deal
NOAA denies petition for US Gulf of Mexico whale speed restrictions
Lithium battery incidents cause insurance market to issue new clause
Cooperation and communication key to saving whale populations
South Africa monitors new US bill proposing 20-year AGOA extension
Status of Marshall Islands flag within EU upgraded