In their role as the national representative organisations for ship brokers and ship agents, FONASBA members are often required to provide input to or comment on new or amended regulations for specific activities that their member state government intends to apply to the sector. In addition they may also be asked to provide guidance to their member companies on the application of new measures. In order to be able to provide fully informed guidance to its members, the association needs to take into account a wide range of factors including, importantly, how the situation in their own state compares to others on a global or regional basis. It certainly strengthens the hand of a national association in negotiating with its government if it can demonstrate that a particular proposal is in accordance with, or contrary to, accepted practice in other relevant member states.

Member associations are therefore encouraged to seek the assistance of their colleague members within FONASBA through the circulation, by the Secretariat, of an enquiry. Responses from member associations are received by the Secretariat and combined verbatim in a response form which is then sent to the originating association for their guidance. As well as guiding the association concerned, the results of these surveys also form a useful information resource for the shipping industry as a whole and it is for that reason that the responses to previous surveys are now being made available for the wider maritime sector.

This page therefore lists all the recent surveys initiated by our member associations, and under each entry, clicking on the word “here” will link to the results or summary sheet where the collated responses from other members can be found.

FONASBA Membership Survey: Payment Practices, Foreign Exchange Requirements, and Use of Local Currency in Ship Agency

04/2026

FONASBA has recently been approached by our colleagues at the Brazilian association (FENAMAR) regarding a matter of growing concern affecting ship agents in their jurisdiction, specifically in relation to payment practices connected to port call disbursements.

The issue relates to reported instances where ship agents may be encouraged or required to accept funds in local currency through domestic mechanisms, rather than through established international remittance and foreign exchange settlement processes traditionally used when acting on behalf of foreign principals.

From the perspective shared, such practices may raise important considerations, including legal compliance, financial traceability, tax treatment, audit requirements, and the overall allocation of risk between principals and agents.

Given the potential relevance of this matter beyond a single jurisdiction, FONASBA believes it is important to gather a broader understanding of how similar situations are addressed across our global membership.

The purpose of this survey is therefore to:
• Obtain a comparative overview of current practices in different jurisdictions
• Identify whether this is an isolated issue or one of wider concern
•Support informed and balanced discussions within the Federation and with relevant stakeholders

To access the results, kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Assessing the Impact of Digitalisation and Environmental Regulation on Maritime Supply Chains

03/2026

This survey is part of an MSc dissertation, assessing the impact of digitalisation and environmental regulation on maritime supply chains. We kindly request the support of members in completing the survey below, which focuses on evaluating these impacts on maritime supply chains.

The purpose of the survey is to gather industry perspectives on how digital tools, emissions requirements, and regulatory frameworks influence operational practices.

To access the results, kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Customs Requirements for Vessels Calling at Port for Repairs

03/2026

Our colleagues in South Africa have requested that we circulate a survey regarding customs procedures applicable to vessels calling at port solely to carry out repairs.

The objective is to determine whether customs authorities in different countries require a provisional import permit and/or payment when a vessel calls at port solely to carry out repairs. Specifically, clarification is sought as to whether, in your country, customs authorities require a provisional import permit and/or the provision of payment or financial security based on the value of the vessel before repair works may commence

To access the results, kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Container Demurrage Charging Practices Adopted Across Jurisdictions

03/2026

Our members from Brazil kindly requested the support of members in completing the questionnaires, which examine container demurrage charging practices adopted across different jurisdictions. In Brazil, this topic is currently under discussion among regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders, and,
in this context, FENAMAR seeks to contribute to the debate by gathering comparative information and international practices that may help the ongoing discussions.

To access the results, kindly click here

FONASBA Survey Results Inquiry on Port Practice – Container Door Orientation

03/2026

Our colleagues in Jordan requested that we circulate a survey regarding port practices on container door orientation during cargo operations and storage within terminals.

The objective of the survey was to gather insights from multiple jurisdictions to better understand prevailing operational practices.

To access the results, kindly click here

INTERCARGO Survey: Use of Alternative Fuels in Ship Bunkering and Port Readiness

02/2026

Following the questionnaire from our INTERCARGO members, which examines the use of alternative fuels in ship bunkering and port readiness, we are pleased to present below a consolidated summary of the responses received from participating members across the FONASBA network.

To access the results, kindly click here

ECASBA Survey : PILOTAGE REGULATIONS AND PRACTICES.

12/2025

Our members in the Spanish association recently raised questions concerning PILOTAGE REGULATIONS AND PRACTICES. To ensure consistency and accuracy across our membership, ECASBA consulted members to gather their views and experiences.

To access the results, kindly click here.

ECASBA Query Results: VAT Responsibility on Invoices “To Master
and/or Owner”.

11/2025

Our members in the Dutch association recently raised questions concerning VAT responsibility on invoices issued “To Master and/or Owner.” To ensure consistency and accuracy across our membership, ECASBA consulted members to gather their views and experiences.

To access the results kindly click here.

Jordan Survey: A CASE OF LONG-STANDING CONTAINERS CARRYING DANGEROUS GOODS THAT REMAIN IN PORT YARDS FOR EXTENDED PERIODS WITHOUT BEING COLLECTED.

08/2025

This survey, initiated by our colleagues in Jordan, explores the issue of dangerous goods containers left uncollected in port yards for extended periods. It provides a comparative view of how different ports and authorities handle these situations, highlighting current practices, responsibilities, and challenges.

To access the results kindly click here.

FONASBA Survey: SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY COMPLIANCE & FINANCIAL VIABILITY IN AGENCY OPERATIONS

05/2025

This survey was initiated following a request from our colleagues in Italy.
The implementation of EU Directive 2022/2464 on Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) has introduced significant challenges for maritime agents worldwide. The increasing compliance requirements in digitalization, traceability, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) obligations have added substantial complexity and financial burden to our sector.

To assess the impact and support the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness, FONASBA launched this targeted survey to gather input from companies and associations, particularly those affected by these regulatory developments.

The data collected will support FONASBA in better understanding the practical implications of ESG compliance for ship agents and exploring potential ways to assist the professions we represent moving forward.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: RESTRICTIONS ON WASTE DISCHARGE FROM SHIPS DOCKING AT THE PORT (MARPOL ANNEX V)

05/2025

Our colleagues in SPAIN requested a survey regarding the Restrictions on Waste Discharge from Ships Docking at the Port (MARPOL Annex V) in member countries.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

YABA Survey – Women’s Participation in Operational Roles in the Ship Agency and Ship Broking Sector

04/2025

This survey was initiated by one of our YABA 2025 candidates.
The aim of this initiative was to explore the involvement of women in operational, technical, and leadership roles within the ship agency and ship broking sectors—roles that are at the core of our profession and are often perceived as male-dominated.
While general statistics on gender diversity in the maritime industry are available, there is a clear lack of data focused specifically on the agency sector. This survey sought to address that gap by providing insight into how women are currently participating in hands-on operational functions, and identifying any trends, challenges, or areas for improvement.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

BRAZIL Survey – e-BoL

04/2025

Our colleagues in Brazil asked us to share a survey regarding the adoption of the electronic Bill of Lading (e-BoL) in member countries.
Globally, the shipping industry is steadily transitioning to digital documentation, with the e-BoL gaining increasing traction among stakeholders.
In Brazil, legal forums are actively discussing the implementation of e-BoL, with ship agents playing a key role in shaping regulations that aim to ensure the system’s secure and reliable use by all parties involved.
As the national association representing ship agents in Brazil, FENAMAR contributed to this conversation by initiating this data collection through FONASBA.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: KENYA on INSPECTION AND CHARGES FOR PHYTOSANITARY COMPLIANCE

04/2025

Our colleagues in KENYA requested a survey regarding the INSPECTION AND CHARGES FOR PHYTOSANITARY COMPLIANCE in member countries.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

ECASBA Survey Cyprus: Automated Import System by Customs Dept

02/2025

Members in Cyprus raised concerns about the implementation of the AIS system, scheduled for early April 2025, since for the undertaking of Customs formalities & exchanges the new system will replace the prevailing Port Community System. The current regulations require that Ship Agents can only generate arrival notifications (G2 messages) once a vessel has physically arrived and is ready to discharge. This restriction impacts the timely submission of cargo manifests (G3-G4 messages), potentially delaying customs clearance and cargo delivery.
To ensure seamless vessel and cargo operations, particularly in liner trades (container/ro-ro), they inquired whether other European countries allow for more flexibility—such as permitting the creation of arrival messages 24 to 48 hours before actual arrival.
Additionally, they sought insights into AIS implementation across Europe and any ongoing technical challenges experienced by members.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

2024 SURVEYS

ECASBA Survey: Denmark 2024 – NIS2 Development Status

09/2024

The EU Directive NIS2 focused on improving cybersecurity and its implementation in Danish legislation. The NIS2 is the abbreviation for “Networks and Information Security Directive”, DIRECTIVE (EU) 2022/2555 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 14 December 2022<https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:02022L2555-20221227&qid=1724841892461>. It is a Directive to strengthen cybersecurity and to enhance the number of companies, entities, institutions, and authorities that are affected by the Directive

While Denmark was making progress, we understood how far other countries had come with their own NIS2 implementation.

Therefore, we have prepared the results from ECASBA members who provided insights into the status of this project in their countries.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

ECASBA Survey: Denmark 2024 – Challenges with the EU PoUS System for T2L

09/2024

Proof of Union Status (PoUS) is a Trans-European System that standardises the exchange of information between businesses and customs authorities to confirm a product’s Union status during customs procedures.
This is the feedback from the PoUS system used in Denmark, which handles T2L documents. This EU-managed system has caused many
problems for our members, leading to frustration. It seemed the EU had not taken full responsibility, and member states like Denmark had to create their own emergency procedures because the EU did not provide clear guidance.
Therefore, we have the answers to a few questions from ECASBA members, which helped us gain a clearer understanding of these challenges.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

Membership Survey by Brazil – IMO Ballast Water Management Convention

08/2024

Brazil, as a signatory of the IMO Ballast Water Management Convention, has developed and enforced specific guidelines to manage ballast water discharge from ships.
The survey has allowed us to learn how other countries conduct some aspects of the inspection to ensure compliance with ballast water management regulations.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

Membership Survey by Brazil – Port Community System [PCO] Development Status

08/2024

The Port Community System (PCS) is a digital platform that integrates different actors in the port sector, such as port authorities, logistics operators, terminals, shipping companies, and other stakeholders, facilitating the exchange of information and the management of related processes to foreign trade.
In Brazil, the evolution of PCS is progressing slowly, although it has had a promising start. The implementation of a ‘unified solution’ faces challenges such as the need for standardization, integration of different technologies, and, above all, collaboration between public and private sectors.
The survey results have provided information on the status of the development and implementation of this project in other countries.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Medical Evacuation from Ship to Helicopter

07/2024

As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our seafarers, we conducted a survey regarding the procedures and
policies surrounding medical evacuations from ships by helicopter. The valuable input received has helped us better understand the current landscape and advocate for necessary improvements.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

ECASBA Survey: BELGIUM 2024 REGULATION (EU) 2022-91 21.01.2022 ON SHIP WASTE

07/2024

The EU COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) 2022/91 of 21 January 2022 defines the criteria for determining that a ship produces reduced quantities of waste and manages its waste in a sustainable and environmentally sound manner in accordance with Directive (EU) 2019/883 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
Full text can be found via Publications Office (europa.eu) <https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32022R0091>
We urgently received feedback regarding the implementation and impact of this regulation in respective countries.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL) Convention

06/2024

FAL Forms: This convention standardizes several forms (FAL Form 1 – General Declaration, FAL Form 2 – Cargo Declaration, etc.) that ships need to submit to port authorities for clearance.
The Egyptian Maritime Transport Sector implemented the electronic transmission of FAL Forms to improve efficiency. It is now mandatory for all ships calling Egyptian ports to electronically submit the FAL form via agents to the sector.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Financing Immigration Services in Ports

03/2024

This survey aimed to understand how different countries finance and organize their immigration check-up systems for vessel crew members at their ports. Specifically, we were interested in learning about their support structures for the Ministry of Interior/Border Police/Immigration Authority offices, including maintenance of their offices, transportation for staff to vessels, and salary coverage.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Legal Cabotage Regulation

03/2024

This section of our survey aimed to gather detailed insights into the legal framework governing cabotage regulations within your jurisdiction. We were particularly interested in understanding any restrictions applied to foreign-flagged vessels and the presence of a waiver system allowing exceptions to these rules. Your valuable responses contributed to a comprehensive analysis of cabotage practices globally.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

FONASBA Survey: Ship Movement Statistics

03/2024

This section focused on gathering information on how your association collects, manages, and utilizes statistics related to the movement of ships in maritime and river traffic.
Understanding the methodologies and sources of these statistics helped us analyse the scope and effectiveness of data gathering in the shipping industry across different regions.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

ECASBA MEMBERSHIP SURVEY: PoUS arrangements around adoption of electronic system

03/2024

ECASBA is committed to supporting its members in adapting to evolving regulatory and technological frameworks.
This survey was conducted to assess the current level of electronic system adoption and PoUS-related procedures among ECASBA members. The results provide a foundation for ongoing efforts to promote digitalisation and regulatory harmonisation across international port operations.

To access the results of the survey kindly click here

Covid-19 Survey

France: Port Dues

France: Intra-EU ENS

Belgium: VAT on Transport Services (January 2022 Update)

Denmark: VAT on Transport Services (October 2020)

Israel: Registration of Agents for Customs Reporting

Brazil: Cruise Sector During Covid-19

Morocco: Port Incinerators

Bulgaria: Customs Survey ECASBA Members

Spain: Documentation Charges

Turkey: Delivery Orders