Russia proposes restrictions on older vessels entering ports

The Russian Ministry of Transport has submitted a draft federal law for public consultation that aims to limit the entry of older vessels into the country’s seaports.

Under the proposal, port entry would be restricted for Russian-flagged ships older than 50 years and prohibited for foreign-flagged ships older than 40 years.

The Russian-flagged vessels over 50 years would have a transition period linked to the validity of their classification certificates.

According to the ministry’s announcement on October 30, 2026, the measures are intended to reduce the risk of maritime accidents and environmental incidents, while discouraging shipowners from transferring older domestic vessels to foreign flags to keep carrying Russian cargoes.

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