The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships entered into force on 26 June 2025. For owners planning to sell end-of-life vessels, it changes how ships must be prepared and where they can be recycled.

What the Hong Kong Convention requires

Ships must carry an Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM).
Recycling yards must be authorised and operate under a Ship Recycling Facility Plan.
A Ship Recycling Plan must be prepared for each vessel before recycling.
Flag and recycling states are responsible for survey, certification and authorisation.

What it means for shipowners

Owners should check that the vessel’s IHM is maintained and up to date, and confirm with buyers that the intended yard is authorised under the Convention. Choosing a compliant yard protects the owner’s reputation and reduces regulatory risk.

Why India and Alang matter

India is one of the world’s largest ship recycling destinations, and Alang in Gujarat hosts many yards that have upgraded facilities to meet international standards. This makes India a key market for owners selling end-of-life tonnage.

The role of cash buyers and brokers

Most end-of-life sales go through cash buyers, who purchase the vessel based on its light displacement tonnage (LDT) and resell it to a yard. A broker helps owners compare offers, check yard compliance and coordinate delivery.

See our ship recycling brokerage service, or consider sale and purchase if the vessel still has trading life.

Have a requirement? Contact Ocean Vista Shipbroker or WhatsApp +91 91403 23353.