DICAPI approves standard for Maritime Traffic Service (VTS) in Peru

The Directorate General of Captaincies and Coast Guard (DICAPI) formalized the approval of the “Standard for the Maritime Traffic Service (VTS) of the National Maritime Authority” through Directorial Resolution N° 672-2026 MGP/DICAPI, signed by the Director General, Rear Admiral Oscar Torrico Infantas.

Strengthening and standardization of maritime control

This regulation represents the functional evolution and formalization of the Maritime Traffic Control Service (TRAMAR). Its main objective is to establish a specific regulatory framework for the organization, provision, supervision, and technical sustainability of the VTS service, aligning with the international guidelines of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).

Key aspects of the standard:

• Defined functional structure: Details the competencies and functions of the key actors in the system, including the Coast Guard Operations Command (COMOPERGUARD), the Port Captaincy, the VTS Center, and the operational personnel (VTS Head, Supervisor, Operators, and Technical-Nautical Advisor).
• Progressive implementation: While it operationally consolidates the capacity of the Port of Callao, the standard lays the groundwork for its gradual implementation in other VTS Zones in the country according to technical evaluations and budgetary availability.
• Safety and environment: Seeks to standardize operational procedures, communications, and reports from vessels and their captains to reinforce navigation safety, the efficiency of water traffic, and the protection of the marine environment.

Validity and sanctions

The resolution stipulates that the standard comes into force the day after its publication in the official gazette El Peruano. Likewise, it is established that non-compliance with the stipulated provisions by those administered will lead to the corresponding administrative sanctions.

To consult Annex “A” which contains the full text of the standard, interested parties can access the institutional website of the National Maritime Authority (www.dicapi.mil.pe).