Members who are concerned with the production of biodiesel and, in particular, its potential in Europe, may be interested to read a paper issued by the FAO concerning the market for biofuels. This paper considers the potential supply of commodity oils and fats for the manufacture of biofuels and, in particular, the future of this market for palm oil. The paper can be accessed by clicking here.

CHANGES TO IMO REGULATIONS, EFFECTIVE 1 JANUARY 2007

After many years in development, the International Maritime Organisation has decreed that the revised Annex II to MARPOL 73/78 and the amended IBC Code will enter into force on 1 January 2007.  IMO now requires the shipping name, essentially the base oil name of the cargo, to appear on the shipping documents, although they have not defined the shipping documents.  In the vast majority of contracts, there needs to be no change to current practice with respect to product names.  However, some companies may wish to use trade names or special commercial names on their Bills of Lading which do not appear on the list of synonyms.  For this situation, there exists a document (BLG.1/Circ.18 - a copy of which can be found under the 'Key Documents' area) which has been accepted by IMO and when completed and presented to the vessel, will act as the shipping document, rather than the Bill of Lading.  The ship will also require enough documentation to prove to any Port State Authority that the product is effectively the same as the base oil or a recognised synonym.

REVISIONS TO MARPOL ANNEX II 

Intertanko have issued a book to their members entitled "The Revisions to MARPOL Annex II - A Practical Guide", which may also be of interest to FOSFA shipping members. To access a copy of this Guide, click here.