Financial Crime World

Here is the article rewritten in Markdown format:

Know Your Customer Regulations in Solomon Islands: A Must-Know for Shipowners and Operators

As the maritime industry continues to grow and evolve in Solomon Islands, it is crucial for shipowners and operators to stay informed about the latest regulations and requirements. In this article, we will delve into the key know your customer (KYC) regulations that apply to the shipping industry in Solomon Islands.

KYC Regulations in Force

The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority has a range of acts and regulations in force that govern various aspects of maritime activity, including safety, security, pollution prevention, and vessel registration. Some of the key regulations include:

  • The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority Act 2018
  • The Shipping Act 1998 as amended (SIMA up-to-date version as of 01-01-2021)
  • The Shipping (Non Convention Vessel Safety) Regulations 2006
  • The Shipping (Marine Pollution) Regulations 2011
  • The Shipping (STCW Convention) Regulations 2010
  • The Shipping (Registration) Regulations 2010
  • The Shipping (Pilotage Certification) Regulations 2010
  • The Shipping (Marine Navigation Aids) Regulations 2010
  • The Shipping (Dangerous Goods and IMDG Code) Regulations 2011
  • The Shipping (Marine Inquiries and Investigations) Regulations 2011
  • The Maritime Safety Administration (Research Vessels) Regulations 2010
  • The Maritime Safety Administration (Ship and Port Security) Regulations 2011

Amendments to Regulations in Preparation

The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority is currently preparing amendments to several regulations, including the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (Fees, Charges and Levies) Maritime Order (No.2) 2022. The amendment aims to increase fees in 2024 and establish a Maritime Development Fund (MARFUND) with SIMA.

  • Public consultation on this amendment is scheduled to begin on May 1, 2024, and will run for 60 days.
  • Feedback should be sent to contact@simagov.sb.

New Maritime Order Regulating Passenger Carriage and Registration

SIMA is also preparing a new maritime order regulating the carriage and registration of passengers on board registered vessels. The regulation aims to ensure that the number and identity of passengers on board vessels are known at all times, and subject to strict procedures of registration and counting by shipping companies and vessels.

  • Public consultation on this regulation is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2024, and will run for 60 days.
  • Feedback should be sent to contact@simagov.sb.

Other Sources of Information

For those seeking more information on maritime regulations in Solomon Islands, there are several sources available:

  • The International Maritime Organization (IMO)
  • The International Labour Organization (ILO)
  • The International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)
  • The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
  • The Pacific Community (SPC)
  • The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)
  • The Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute (PACLII)

In conclusion, shipowners and operators in Solomon Islands must stay informed about the latest regulations and requirements to ensure compliance with KYC regulations. By understanding these regulations, they can avoid costly fines and penalties, and maintain a safe and secure maritime environment.