Article Abstract:
Most shipowners of different flag states remain unresolved regarding the issue of certification as the deadline for compliance to the International Maritime Organization's ISM Code nears. The countries of Greece, Honduras, Thailand, India, and Pakistan have not decided on whom to appoint to facilitate the auditing. Meanwhile, the Marine Safety Agency has been working closely with the British government and has already issued some 127 SMCs and 24 DOCs to operators in June 1997. The Korean Register of Shipping has reported that one third of its fleet have already met ISM certification.
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Article Abstract:
The Dutch government's efforts to revitalize the shipowning market are paying off. A 20% growth in tonnage flying the Dutch flag was already achieved since Jan 1998, according to Aad Korteland, chairman of Koninklijke Vereniging van Nederlandse Reders (KVNR). Further cooperation between KVNR and the government is being pushed, especially concerning environmental protection and quality control. Meanwhile, the Dutch Shipbuilder's Association is eyeing specialized vessels as the way to future growth.
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Giant cruise companies continue to build larger vessels as smaller operators develop their own niche in the cruising market. Fears of overtonnage were raised as current newbuilding orderbooks comprise 30 vessels worth about US$8 billion. Carnival Cruise Line believes that the industry should draw first-time cruisers, to avoid overcapacity and reduced cruise prices. However, RCCL contends that overcapacity will not be a problem as long as the industry will adopt an aggressive marketing stance.
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