The latest news from around the world on regulatory issues and legislation affecting the boating industry including taxes, trade tariffs, standards and environomental restrictions.
Regulatory Issues and Legislation
Second Dutch safety report in six years finds historic sailing fleet remains unsafe
Conditions have not become “demonstrably safer” since the first safety report in 2017 that followed the death of three German tourists struck by a falling mast
New boat rental rule in Menorca meets opposition
The changes are due to come into effect in July next year
Malta issues commercial yacht manning reminder
Rules apply to all international and domestic voyages
South Carolina signs boater safety legislation
New law requires anyone born after July 1, 2007, to take a boater safety education course
ABYC publishes 63rd supplement to small craft standards
Free webinar outlining changes to 2023-2024 updates to be held August 16
Egypt extends yacht tourist visas in bid to boost sector
The country has decided to extend the visa duration for foreign yacht tourists from one month to three
SA government asks US for trade pact early extension
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is due to expire in 2025
Rise in boating accidents has Netherlands weighing tougher boating rules
Despite the total number of minor accidents falling slightly, serious incidents have doubled
European Boating Industry strives for full removal of US boat import tariffs
EBI has arranged a meeting with the European Commission to progress the matter
Malibu Boats settles 2014 product liability claim for US$100m
The US builder was being sued by the family of a boy killed in an accident involving a Malibu Response LX bowrider
US Congress moves to stymie boat speed rule proposal
The NOAA proposal overlaps with prime fishing seasons along the US Atlantic coast and impacts some 63,000 registered boats
Naples port bans 75m-plus superyachts from Louise Dock
Ban is thought to be the result of a “miscommunication”
More Regulatory News
Calls for vessel speed restriction in US Gulf of Mexico to protect the Rice’s whale
SA sailing association reports marina lease breakthrough
Western Cape delegation in AGOA talks with US lawmakers
US boating & fishing interests appeal to Congress on speed restrictions
Outdoor industry to testify before US House Subcommittee on proposed vessel speed limits
South African president urged to address AGOA jitters
WAVS looks for technological solutions to US whale issue
SA builders jittery over possible trade impact of US/SA diplomatic row
US boating on the right side of right whale protection proposal
ABC pushes boating agenda armed with new economic data
US boating industry docks in DC for advocacy week
Balearic ban on marinas, infrastructure “to grant greater public access to the sea”
Malta’s main opposition party calls for maritime industry regulator
Saudi prince told to pay £42m to Credit Suisse over yacht loan
US outdoor industry looks for early passage of AORA
Electric propulsion amendments added to NMEA 2000 Standard
DealersCircle preps for new US privacy rules
New luxury goods tax to drive yachts from Mallorca?
Turkey introduces new yacht charter contract
China reviews changes to Marine Environment Protection Law