In June 2025, the Directorate of Ports and Coasts (DPC) of the Brazilian Navy issued Ordinance DPC/DGN/MB No. 180/25, which approved the first revision of the Maritime Authority Standards for the Prevention of Environmental Pollution Caused by Vessels and Platforms (NORMAM-401). The revised standard introduces Chapter 4, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for biofouling control, aligned with the IMO Biofouling Guidelines (Re solution MEPC.378(80)). Under NORMAM‑401, all vessels exceeding 24 meters in length intending to enter Brazilian Jurisdictional Waters (“AJB”) waters must:
- Maintain a Biofouling Management Plan,
- Maintain a Biofouling Record Book, and
- Ensure the vessel’s hull condition does not exceed Biofouling Level 1 (microfouling) upon entry into AJB.
The minimum contents of the Biofouling Management Plan and Biofouling Record Book are indicated in Annex H of NORMAM-401.
Where biofouling at Level 2 or above is identified, recommended actions include cleaning with capture of residues, enhanced inspection frequency, and—if deterioration of antifouling coating is observed—dry‑docking for maintenance. Vessels intending to conduct in‑water cleaning must obtain prior authorization from the competent Maritime Authority agent, preferably a minimum of ten days in advance.
The biofouling level scale and respective cleaning practices are indicated in Annex J of NORMAM-401.
Annex I of NORMAM‑401 also divides the Brazilian coastline into three marine biogeographical regions (North, Northeast, South/Southeast), and vessels navigating between these regions must ensure ongoing compliance with the requirements described above.
In accordance with Ordinance DPC/DGN/MB No. 193/25 dated 18 December 2025, penalties for non‑compliance (including warnings, fines, and operational restrictions) will become effective from 10 June 2026, following formal administrative procedures conducted under Law No. 9,605/1998 and NORMAM‑401. The requirement to request authorization for in‑water cleaning, however, has been in force since June 2025.
ABS strongly encourages operators calling at Brazilian ports, or planning operations in Brazilian waters, to:
- Review and update their Biofouling Management Plans,
- Ensure Biofouling Record Books are complete and up to date,
- Conduct timely inspections and cleaning to maintain biofouling at or below Level 1,
- Coordinate early with local agents regarding any in‑water cleaning needs, and
- Maintain all supporting documentation onboard for inspection.
Should you require assistance in understanding these requirements or assessing the compliance status of your fleet, ABS remains available to support you.
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