A comprehensive 410-page report, co-published by Robin des Bois, the Animal Welfare Foundation, and Tierschutzbund, reveals that the world's livestock carrier fleet has consistently been the worst-performing vessel category in port state control inspections for at least six years. This persistent issue points to a state of chronic regulatory failure within the sector, characterized by aging and poorly maintained vessels.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this information is critical for risk assessment. The poor performance in port state control inspections can lead to increased scrutiny, delays, and potential detentions for these vessels. Shippers involved in the transport of live animals may face higher operational risks, including schedule disruptions and potential re-routing if vessels are deemed unseaworthy or non-compliant. This situation could also impact insurance premiums and the availability of suitable tonnage, necessitating thorough due diligence on vessel condition and compliance records.
