Last week, the International Maritime Organization adopted amendments to the “Beltrep” and “Soundrep” reporting systems for the Danish straits.
The changes are aimed at strengthening navigational safety and improving the authorities’ ability to manage safety and environmental risks in Danish waters. The Beltrep ship reporting system covers the Great Belt, while Soundrep applies to the Öresund.
Under the new rules, ships transiting Danish waters will be required to provide information on relevant insurance certificates. The measure builds on existing international ship reporting frameworks.
According to the Danish Maritime Authority, the amendments were adopted with broad support following extensive discussions, some of them politically charged.
The changes are intended to improve the maritime situational picture, support incident management, and enhance safe navigation as well as the protection of the marine environment — including in areas already designated by the IMO as Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs).
The decision comes amid growing international concern over substandard shipping practices and opaque ownership and insurance arrangements. The new reporting requirements are intended to give authorities a stronger basis for assessing and responding to safety and environmental risks, including cases of insufficient insurance coverage.
The amendments will enter into force six months after their adoption.
