ABSTRACT
The importance of international trade has increased through the emerging globalization processes and thereby also the role of international shipping. The seaborne transport patterns are formed by linking producers and consumers. Important trades today are crude oil transport, dry bulk shipping and container transport. Shipping has been characterized by volatility witnessed by significant variation in charter rates and newbuilding prices. These facts have been used to explain shortcomings in maritime safety management even though shipping is highly competitive in key trades. The large number of actors involved in the shipping business has also been seen as obstacle to increased safety. The regulation of safety is based on international conventions, but the control is left to national administrations (Flag State Control). Certain countries maintain less strict control and opens for cost saving that results in so-called flagging out of shipping companies. Certain coastal states see this as a challenge to own safety and environmental protection and have introduced Port State Control. Inspection data shows the safety standard still varies between Flag States. Stakeholders like shipbuilders, insurance, charterers, ship classification, and labor organizations all must contribute to reach a safe and sustainable seaborne transport.
