Global shipping industry moves toward autonomous vessel regulations

The global maritime sector is taking a major step toward the future of shipping as the International Maritime Organization (IMO)

The global maritime sector is taking a major step toward the future of shipping as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) prepares to release the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code on July 1. The new framework marks the first internationally coordinated effort to establish safety and operational standards for remotely controlled and fully autonomous vessels.

Although the code will initially be non-mandatory, it represents a significant milestone in the development of autonomous shipping technology. The guidelines are designed to address a wide range of issues associated with crewless vessels, including legal responsibility in the event of accidents, operational safety, and procedures for tasks traditionally carried out by onboard crew members.

One of the key challenges addressed by the code is determining how essential ship functions—such as firefighting, cargo management, vessel maintenance, and lookout duties—can be safely performed when no personnel are physically present on board. The framework aims to provide clarity and consistency as autonomous technologies become increasingly integrated into maritime operations.

To classify varying levels of automation, the IMO has adopted a four-tier autonomy system similar to that used in the self-driving automobile industry. Under this structure, Degree One vessels still carry crew members while utilizing automated systems to assist operations. Degree Three ships are operated remotely by personnel located elsewhere, while Degree Four vessels are fully autonomous and capable of functioning without any human intervention.

The most complex regulatory and legal questions arise at Degrees Three and Four. In particular, determining liability when a fully autonomous vessel is involved in an incident remains a critical issue. Regulators and industry stakeholders are working to ensure that accountability and safety standards are clearly defined before autonomous ships become widespread in commercial shipping.

The July publication is intended as a learning and transition phase, allowing governments, shipowners, technology developers, and regulators to gain practical experience with the framework before mandatory requirements are introduced. Feedback gathered during this period will help refine regulations and address any emerging concerns.

The mandatory version of the MASS Code is scheduled to be formally adopted in 2030 and is expected to enter into force on January 1, 2032. This timeline provides the maritime industry with approximately six years to prepare for compliance and adapt to the new operational environment.

The United Kingdom’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has played a significant role in the development of the code through its participation in IMO working groups. Leanne Page, Assistant Director for Future Technical Standards at the MCA, emphasized the importance of a unified global approach, noting that consistent international regulations are essential for ensuring fairness, efficiency, and safety across the maritime industry.

A glimpse of this future can already be seen in Norway’s Yara Birkeland, widely recognized as the world’s first autonomous and zero-emission electric cargo ship. The vessel has entered commercial service, transporting fertilizer from a production facility to the port of Brevik, demonstrating how autonomous technology is beginning to transform maritime logistics