Argentine Naval Prefecture Joins IMO's World Maritime Day 2026

World Maritime Day 2026 was observed on September 24, promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the theme 'From Policy to Practice,' which for the first time will be maintained over two consecutive years, 2026 and 2027. The Argentine Naval Prefecture joined the celebration, noting that the theme aims to turn international rules and policies into concrete actions at the national level.

The Argentine institution explained that, as the national Maritime Authority, it carries out oversight, maritime safety, environmental protection and vessel supervision duties. Through Port State Control and Flag State Control, it verifies compliance with international conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL and the ISPS Code, which concerns the security of ships and port facilities.

The Prefecture highlighted the use of vessel traffic monitoring and control systems, such as VTS systems, together with satellite monitoring tools, to strengthen navigation oversight. It also mentioned that it submitted a proposal to the IMO for six free international courses, taught in English in a virtual format, aimed at officials from Maritime Administrations of various States.

At the international level, the IMO emphasized that global shipping moves more than 80% of world merchandise trade, making it a key component of supply chains. The organization also noted that decarbonization remains an unfinished task, with a 5% increase in the sector's greenhouse gas emissions during 2024 and just 8% of the world fleet's tonnage equipped for alternative fuels as of May 2025.

In Brazil, the Ministério de Portos e Aeroportos also joined the occasion, recalling that more than 80% of the volume of world merchandise trade is transported by sea, according to UNCTAD, and that ports account for more than 95% of Brazilian foreign trade. The commemoration recognized the work of professionals who operate ports, pilot vessels and ensure the safety of people and cargo.