Maritime industry in PNG urged to turn policy into practice

Papua New Guinea’s maritime industry has been urged to turn policies and international standards into practical action to improve safety, strengthen skills and support the country’s economic development.

The call was made by Chief Marine Pilot Captain Max Stossell during World Maritime Day celebrations hosted by Niugini Pilots Limited on Thursday this week.

The event brought together representatives from maritime regulators, ports, shipping operators, service providers and other key players in the industry.

World Maritime Day is observed annually to recognise the important contribution of the maritime industry to international trade, economic development and sustainable development.

The maritime sector is particularly important to Papua New Guinea because the country relies heavily on shipping to move goods, connect communities and maintain links with international markets.

Globally, more than 80 per cent of international trade by volume is carried by sea. It makes shipping industry a major part of the global economy.

This year’s World Maritime Day theme, set by the International Maritime Organization [IMO], is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.”

The theme focuses on ensuring that international maritime policies, regulations and standards are translated into practical action through proper implementation, training, enforcement and safety measures.

Captain Stossell said the theme was relevant to the industry because having laws and standards alone was not enough.

"While legislation and standards provide the foundation for a safe and effective maritime sector, policies only fulfill their purpose when implemented consistently, competently, and transparently.” he said.

He said maritime excellence required competent professionals, continuous career development, strong legislation, accountable enforcement and effective regulatory institutions.

He also highlighted the need for proper training and modern equipment, supported by strong safety management systems.

Captain Stossell said the maritime industry was becoming more complex as ports became busier and vessels became larger and more technologically advanced.

"Our maritime sector serves as a vital lifeline, connecting us both domestically and globally.

"It drives international trade, supplies our local communities, and contributes significantly to our economic development,” he said.

The Chief Mariner said Papua New Guinea must continue investing in its maritime professionals by expanding training and strengthening competency assessments.

He also called for stronger institutional capacity so regulatory bodies like the National Maritime Safety Authority [NMSA] can effectively carry out their responsibilities and meet international maritime standards.

For Captain Stossell, safety must become part of the daily culture of the industry rather than simply a requirement under the law.

"We must ensure that turning policy into practice is not just a slogan, but an ongoing mission that yields safer ships, cleaner oceans, stronger institutions, and a resilient maritime industry for Papua New Guinea and the world.” he said.

Meanwhile, the World Maritime Day celebration also recognised the men and women working across Papua New Guinea’s maritime sector.

From pilots and seafarers to regulators, port workers, shipping companies and service providers, each plays a role in keeping the country’s maritime lifeline operating.

The event provided an opportunity for the industry to reflect on its contribution while renewing its commitment to safety, professional development, innovation and continuous improvement.

For Papua New Guinea, the message from the celebration is clear and that is strong maritime policies must be matched by practical action to keep the country’s waters, ports, vessels and people safe.