In 2012, the International Conference on the Safety of Fishing Vessels, held under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), adopted the Cape Town Agreement of 2012 on the Implementation of the Provisions of the Torremolinos Protocol of 1993 relating to the Torremolinos International Convention for the Safety of Fishing Vessels, 1997 (CTA), aiming to help fishing vessels prevent casualties, improve working conditions for fishers, enhance competitiveness and protect the marine environment.
At the time of adoption, it was agreed that the CTA would come into effect 12 months after at least 22 States, whose aggregate number of fishing vessels (≥24 m in length and operating on the high seas) is not less than 3,600, have expressed their consent to be bound by it.
On February 24, 2026, IMO issued Circular CT/AGR2012.1/Circ.25, indicating that the accession of Argentina to the Agreement triggered the entry into force of the CTA, as the above conditions have now been met. At present, there are 28 Contracting States to the Agreement, with an aggregate number of 3,754 fishing vessels of 24 m in length and over operating on the high seas. The CTA will enter into force on February 24, 2027.
The CTA is an internationally binding instrument that sets minimum requirements for the design, construction, equipment and inspection of fishing vessels. It applies to fishing vessels 24 meters in length and over or equivalent in gross tonnage (if decided to be used by the Flag Administration) as shown in the table below. Many of the technical requirements apply only to new vessels, but some apply to existing vessels as well and may vary depending on the vessel’s length or equivalent gross tonnage. In addition, it should be noted that States party to the Agreement have up to 10 years to implement certain provisions, allowing time to prepare for compliance with the regulations.
Under CTA, vessel’s fire safety systems and appliances, life-saving appliances, radio installations, structure, machinery, and equipment must be inspected before the vessel is put into service and at intervals not exceeding five years. Following an initial or renewal survey, an International Fishing Vessel Safety Certificate will be issued, supplemented by a Record of Equipment. If a vessel has been granted an exemption, its operator must obtain an exemption certificate and keep it available on board for inspection at all times.
Further guidance on compliance with the requirements set out in the CTA can be found in Resolution MSC.571(109).
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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