GMS Issues World’s First International Ready for Recycling Certificate under HKC

GMS, the world’s largest buyer of ships for recycling, has announced the issuance of the world’s first International Ready for Recycling Certificate (IRRC) since the entry into force of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) on June 26. The certificate, issued by the Liberian Registry, was granted to the vessel R Pisces.

The IRRC confirms that the vessel meets all required conditions under the convention, including the inventory of hazardous materials, an approved ship recycling plan, and selection of a recycling facility with valid authorization. R Pisces is scheduled to be recycled at Leela Responsible Recycling, located in Alang, India.

Vishaal Raj Soni, CEO of Leela Group of Ship Recycling Yards, praised the collaboration between shipowners, cash buyers, flag administrations, and certified recycling facilities, saying: “This achievement is not just a certificate. It represents a benchmark for how the future of ship recycling should be approached.”

The Hong Kong Convention sets out international requirements for ship recycling to improve safety, environmental protection, and transparency.