IMO’s Facilitation Committee (FAL 50) in International Shipping News 02/04/2026 The 50th session of the IMO’s Facilitation Committee (FAL 50) was held in London from 23 to 27 March 2026. FAL 50 continued discussions on an IMO Strategy on Maritime Digitalization. FAL 50 also agreed on amendments to the FAL Convention, and to progress the work on the new Maritime Cyber Code in the Facilitation Committee. FAL Convention amendments Public health and quarantine FAL 50 adopted a resolution amending the Annex to the FAL Convention related to the facilitation of crew changes, to the provision of vaccinations, and to access to medical care during a public health emergency of international concern. The amendment is expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028. Advance Passenger Information (API) and Booking and Reservation Information (BRI) FAL 50 approved a draft FAL resolution amending the FAL Convention concerning the collection of API and BRI data, with a view to adoption at FAL 51. It was decided that the decision on whether to collect API or not should be up to the member states. Mandatory cybersecurity requirements in Single Windows FAL 50 approved a draft FAL resolution amending the FAL Convention to implement a mandatory framework for cybersecurity measures for safeguarding Single Windows, with a view to adoption at FAL 51. Future amendments to the FAL Convention FAL 50 agreed to commence the work of amending the Annex to the FAL Convention, based on the entry into force date of the amendments to the International Health Regulations. This will be on the agenda at FAL 51, with the target completion year being 2027. FAL50 considered a resolution to the ILO’s Special Tripartite Committee (STC 5) that reflects amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, and their possible impact on the FAL Convention concerning shore leave. FAL 50 recommended that member states submit proposals for new output to that effect. Development of a comprehensive strategy on maritime digitalization The IMO has identified the need for a comprehensive strategy on maritime digitalization, and tasked the Facilitation Committee to develop this. FAL 50 approved in principle the draft “Strategy on Maritime Digitalization” and agreed to forward it for review by MSC 111, MEPC 85 and LEG 114, with a view for adoption by Assembly 35 in 2027. FAL 50 further agreed to reestablish the Correspondence Group, following MSC 111 in May 2026, on the development of the IMO’s Strategy on Maritime Digitalization and tasked it with developing an action plan to support the implementation of the strategy. The same Correspondence Group was also instructed to consider if or how the IMO’s Strategy on Maritime Digitalization could be aligned with the Revised Strategic Plan of the Organization for the period 2024–2029, including the possible need for amendments or alignment with existing strategic directions. The Correspondence Group will report to FAL 51. Maritime Cyber Code The IMO has decided to establish a goal-based, non-mandatory Maritime Cyber Code, with a target completion date in 2028. This code is proposed to build on work already undertaken within the IMO to support the maritime sector’s response to emerging cybersecurity challenges – looking at safe operations of port facilities, shipping and the ship-to-shore interface. The work will be undertaken by FAL and supported by MSC to draw on expertise from both committees. Furthermore, FAL 50 agreed to recommend the establishment