Ayesha Saba

Pakistan’s maritime industry is set for transformation as the government authorizes the Bahria Classification Society (BCS) to certify vessels locally, a move expected to save foreign exchange, boost shipbuilding, and strengthen compliance with global standards.

According to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan, the Directorate General of Ports and Shipping granted the authorization on BCS’s request, empowering it to perform key functions essential for the safe operation of Pakistan’s coastal fleet under international standards.

The government has clarified that the Flag Administration will closely supervise BCS’s activities to ensure strict adherence to international conventions and regulatory frameworks. The notification emphasized that BCS must maintain high professional standards while following safety, environmental, and operational rules that strengthen Pakistan’s maritime governance.

According to the authorization, BCS is empowered to issue certifications under major international conventions. These include the SOLAS Convention 1974 and Protocol 1988, covering Cargo Ship Safety Construction, Equipment, and Radio Certificates, as well as Passenger Ship Safety Certificates and stability documentation.

Under the Load Line Convention 1966, BCS will issue International Load Line Certificates, while the MARPOL Convention (73/78) authorizes it to certify vessels on oil, sewage, and air pollution prevention standards. The notification included a detailed chart outlining the scope of certifications and the levels of authority delegated to BCS.

The Directorate General concluded that continuous monitoring and evaluation would accompany the authorization to ensure that BCS effectively carries out the statutory responsibilities delegated to it. Talking to Wealth Pakistan, Jawad Akhtar, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, hailed the development as a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s maritime governance.

He noted that Pakistan previously relied on foreign entities for shipbuilding, repair and dismantling certifications, leading to substantial foreign exchange outflows. The licensing of BCS, he added, will attract investment in local infrastructure, enhance compliance with global standards, and reduce dependence on external certification bodies.

Credit: INP-WealthPk