European Union: Marine/ Shipping

The EU's naval operation EUNAVFOR MED Irini has conducted another boarding of a sanctioned oil tanker in the Mediterranean Sea. An Italian naval vessel inspected the MV Sun south of Sicily to verify its flag status, marking the third such operation reported in recent weeks targeting vessels suspected of involvement in sanctions evasion.

German Customs has discontinued efforts to expedite the confiscation of 99,000 metric tonnes of crude oil from the detained tanker Eventin, shifting the legal battle to proceedings initiated by the ship's owner.

Malta has established itself as one of the world's premier yachting jurisdictions, with over 1,000 superyachts registered under its flag. What makes Malta's combination of EU compliance, competitive VAT rates, and flexible registration pathways so attractive to yacht owners and operators seeking a strategic Mediterranean base?

Malta Code of Standards for the Appointment and Responsibilities of Resident Agents marks a significant step in formalising regulatory oversight of international shipowners operating under the Maltese flag. The framework was issued by Transport Malta’s Merchant Shipping Directorate through Merchant Shipping Notice 203. The Code is issued in the context of the Ships Eligible for Registration Regulations (S.L. 234.23), which require international owners to appoint a resident agent in Malta.

Malta's comprehensive maritime legal framework governs marine casualties through domestic legislation and international conventions, establishing clear protocols for investigations, liability determinations, and wreck removal. Understanding the interplay between the Merchant Shipping Act, international conventions like SOLAS and the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention, and Malta's unique position as a major flag state is essential for shipowners, P&I clubs, and maritime practitioners navigating casualty respon

Discover opportunities for residency and citizenship in Malta through the Freedom Business Summit, a digital conference series taking place in June 2026. Learn about Malta's immigration programs and pathways to establishing your presence in this Mediterranean jurisdiction.

Further to our earlier post regarding the boarding and capture of a cargo vessel, the Caffa, the Swedish Prosecutor’s Office has announced that the vessel has now been formally seized the vessel...

By virtue of Act I of 2025 and Legal Notice 26 of 2025, significant amendments were introduced to the Merchant Shipping Act (MSA) Chapter 234 of the Laws of Malta and to the Merchant Shipping...

On 3 February 2026, the European Commission launched an in-depth Foreign Subsidies Regulation investigation into a Chinese wind turbine manufacturer, due to concerns over possible grants and preferential treatment affecting EU competition. This is the second in-depth ex officio (i.e., on its own initiative) FSR investigation against Chinese manufacturers.