Proposal to Assign Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration to Conduct Ship Security Assessments
The Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration (VMIWA) has proposed amendments to several circulars issued by the Ministry of Transport. These amendments relate to ship security inspections, assessments, certification, maritime labour, and ship safety management. The proposal aims to strengthen the legal framework for maritime and port security in Vietnam.
Expanding the Role of VMIWA as a Recognized Security Organization
Under the draft amended circular, several provisions of Circular No. 03/2024/TT-BGTVT, which revises Circular No. 27/2011/TT-BGTVT on the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, will be adjusted.
Specifically, the draft proposes assigning VMIWA the role of a recognized security organization. In this role, VMIWA will directly perform the following tasks:
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Providing guidance to shipping companies on developing Ship Security Plans
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Approving Ship Security Plans
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Conducting Ship Security Assessments
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Issuing International Ship Security Certificates
At the same time, the draft removes the Vietnam Register’s responsibilities in the field of ship security.
Adjusting Security Responsibilities for Port Enterprises
In addition, the draft circular strengthens security requirements for port enterprises. Accordingly, port operators must ensure adequate security personnel and establish port security organizations.
For enterprises operating two or more berths, the draft requires the establishment of a Port Security Committee. This committee must include representatives from port management, operations, human resources, technical departments, and personnel trained in port facility security.
Meanwhile, enterprises operating a single berth must establish a dedicated Port Security Unit. A member of the port’s management board will lead this unit, together with trained personnel from security, operations, and technical divisions.
Changes to the Authority for Ship Security Certification
Under the proposed amendments, the authority to approve Ship Security Plans and issue International Ship Security Certificates will transfer from the Vietnam Register to VMIWA.
Accordingly, the proposed procedure includes the following steps:
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Shipping companies submit application dossiers to VMIWA
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Within two working days, VMIWA provides guidance if the dossier is incomplete
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Once the dossier is valid, both parties agree on the time and location for the assessment
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VMIWA conducts on-board ship security system assessments
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VMIWA issues the International Ship Security Certificate in compliance with the ISPS Code
Additional Responsibilities for Regional Inland Waterways Port Authorities
Furthermore, the draft circular assigns additional responsibilities to regional Inland Waterways Port Authorities. These responsibilities include:
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Guiding enterprises in conducting Port Facility Security Assessments
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Approving Port Facility Security Assessment reports
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Issuing appraisal and approval certificates
At the same time, Maritime Port Authorities and Regional Inland Waterways Port Authorities will coordinate inspections and supervision of security implementation at port facilities.
According to VMIWA, these additions align with actual management practices at port facilities located within inland waterway zones under regional authority management.
Strengthening the Legal Framework for Ship and Port Security
Overall, the proposed adjustments aim to unify the management authority for ship security while improving the effectiveness of ISPS Code implementation. Moreover, the proposal ensures alignment with operational realities in maritime transport and port operations in Vietnam, thereby enhancing maritime security and supporting sustainable development of the shipping industry.
