The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) has announced tightened requirements for ship-to-ship (STS) oil transfer operations involving tankers under the Panamanian flag, aiming to “close the door” on Russia’s so-called shadow fleet while strengthening the country’s reputation as a responsible flag state.
This was reported by offshore-energy.
The new regulation takes effect immediately and requires all vessels with a gross tonnage of 150 and above to notify Panamanian authorities at least 48 hours in advance of any planned STS operations. The notification must include identification details of all participating vessels, coordinates and estimated transfer time, type and volume of hydrocarbons to be transferred, preferred method of operation (underway or at anchor), and confirmation of an agreed STS plan in accordance with MARPOL Convention Rule 41.
Ships must regularly update their STS plans according to the new requirements and keep electronic confirmation of notification onboard as proof of receipt.
“This initiative addresses the growing use of opaque vessels to circumvent international sanctions, transport undeclared crude, or evade environmental safety regulations—practices commonly associated with what is known as the shadow or dark fleet,” explained Deputy General Director of Merchant Marine, Rina Berrocal.
She added that:
"This is not just about safeguarding the reputation of the Panamanian registry, but about ensuring that our vessels are not used as platforms for illicit activities that undermine global trade and harm the environment"
Despite international efforts, the Russian shadow fleet continues to exploit loopholes and complex ownership schemes, allowing Moscow to maintain oil export volumes even under increasing penalty measures. Beyond Panama, the European Commission has repeatedly imposed sanctions designed to weaken the shadow fleet’s capabilities, but the new Panamanian directive marks the first step by a flag state directly targeting opaque operations related to Russian cargoes.
