The Minister of Justice and Community Services, John Amos Nalau Masilaewia, has announced the appointment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the operations of the Vanuatu Shipping Registry.

This Commission of Inquiry is established followed the decision 158 of 2023 of the Council of Ministers.

The commission is chaired by Markmon Batie, and it comprises six members, one of whom has extensive experience in shipping registry affairs and is based overseas.

This move aims to ensure transparency and accountability within the registry, which has been under scrutiny recently due to allegations of misconduct and irregularities, particularly in its New York office. The Vanuatu Shipping Registry offers vessel registration and related services to ship owners worldwide and has been a key player in the maritime industry. However, the government has taken action in response to concerns regarding the registry's activities.

The Commission of Inquiry will conduct a thorough investigation into the operations, practices, and governance of the Vanuatu Shipping Registry, with a specific focus on its New York office.

Its aim is to uncover any instances of corruption, mismanagement, or breaches of regulations that may have occurred within the registry. The inquiry will scrutinize key areas such as the vessel registration process, compliance with international maritime laws and regulations, financial management, and the overall effectiveness of oversight mechanisms.

To facilitate its investigation, the Commission will have the authority to summon witnesses, examine records, and gather evidence.

This move shows the government's commitment to uphold the integrity of Vanuatu's maritime sector and ensure the interests of all stakeholders, including ship owners and the public, are protected.

The government aims to improve the credibility and reputation of Vanuatu as a reliable flag state in the global shipping industry by addressing any issues within the Vanuatu Shipping Registry.

The Commission of Inquiry will begin its work promptly and is expected to deliver its findings and recommendations to the Minister of Justice within a specified timeframe.

It is hoped that the findings of the COI will lead to necessary reforms and improvements to strengthen Vanuatu's position as a reputable flag state in the global shipping community.