As the world draws its breath after the unprecedented challenges of 2020, I am extremely proud, as a former seafarer, of the important role played by ships, and their crews, in the global response to, and ongoing recovery from, the COVID-19 pandemic. I am equally proud of the broader shipping industry’s contribution to sustaining of the global economy.
From its formation 25 years ago, The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) team, working in conjunction with our Bahamas Recognised Classification Societies and Bahamas Nautical Inspectors, have ensured that the service provided to Bahamas flagged ships is of the highest possible quality. This commitment to quality is shared by our shipowners who have demonstrated the high level of shipboard standards that has resulted in the Bahamas Flag achieving one of the highest rankings in the port state control MoU whitelists and US Qualship 21.
Long term global sustainability is a key issue for shipping, and The BMA’s active participation and collaboration with strategic partners align with the IMO’s environmental Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). When representing The Bahamas, a goal-based approach to the regulatory process remains at the core of all our decision-making processes and throughout our engagement at the international level at the IMO or regionally within the Caribbean.
The pandemic has accelerated the global adoption of technology which will be fundamental to the reduction of the environmental footprint of the industry. We have capitalised on technology to enhance our service offering through our online registration services (BORIS) and have established robust systems to facilitate remote inspections, surveys and other statutory work. These steps have proved critical to maintaining the continuous operation of Bahamas ships during the pandemic. An enhanced customer-friendly website and a fresh new look have also been developed to align communications with The BMA’s audience.
A global customer base requires worldwide representation and our presence in The Bahamas, USA, Greece, UK, Hong Kong and Japan enables effective service delivery in a 24/7 industry. Further global expansion and capacity building is planned for our growing and diverse market sector.
Throughout this challenging year, The BMA has been determined to adhere to its core values of progress, honour and service. To this end, we have progressed our business through the introduction of new technology which will benefit our clients for years to come and we have served the shipping industry with our continuing commitment to, and honouring of, the regulatory standards and requirements to enhance the safety, security and sustainability of the maritime sector. These values will continue to dictate our actions in the years to come and we thank all our ship owners for entrusting us with their vessels and our industry stakeholders for their valued partnership.
