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
EU warns Malta over incorrect VAT on yacht leases
The European Commission has sent an additional letter of formal notice to Malta whose authorities it accuses of not levying the correct amount of the value-added tax (VAT) on the lease of yachts. Brussels claims that Valetta failed to properly modify its tax system in response to earlier requests by ...
New York State considers ‘wealth tax’
Face with budget shortfalls and looking to fund an ambitious new program, Democratic lawmakers in New York state are gaining support for tax proposals aimed at its wealthiest residents, which include a rollback of sales tax exemptions on megayachts and private airplanes.
Recreational boating opposes ‘Right to Repair’ legislation
The recreational boating industry has growing concern with a growing trend: so-called ‘Right to Repair’ legislation that requires manufacturers to release software information to allow independent retailers to repair electronic products.
NMMA, Transport Canada reach MOU to streamline boat importation regulations
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Canadian government which will reduce paperwork for manufacturers exporting boats to Canada.
Industry leaders advance key European objectives
European Boating Industry President Jean-Pierre Goudant outlines the future direction of EBI’s efforts to position the boating sector at the heart of EU policy making. In conversation with IBI Publisher Nick Hopkinson, Goudant passionatly advocates the need to have a ’seat at the table’ to tackle industry’s future challenges.
US, China tariff deal helps boating, critics Say “Phase One” agreement too limited
The move last week aimed to deescalate the ongoing trade war reduces some US tariffs in exchange for increased Chinese purchases of American farm goods
Stricter boat safety laws sought after California dive boat charter fire
Members of the California congressional delegation are proposing tougher safety standards for small boats in the wake of a fire aboard a dive boat charter that killed 34 people.
Philippines upgrades recreational boat records with new registry
A significant upgrade for the marine leisure sector in the Philippines has been initiated with the launch of a new Registry of Recreational Boats by MARINA (the Philippine Maritime Industry Authority). The new system will reduce the licencing time for such craft from around two years to just five days.
Green light for foreign SY charter in Australia
New legislation was passed through the Australian Senate today that enables foreign superyachts to charter in Australian waters. The special recreational vessel legislation will allow superyachts use of a coastal trading temporary licence, allowing commercial charter activities.
South Carolina’s new tax policy impacts boaters
Changes include annual boat registration fee
New Bill brings Australian foreign-flag charter licence a step closer
Superyacht Australia will be hoping that it will be a case of third time lucky with regards to securing a licence deal that will enable foreign-flagged superyachts to perform charters while in Australia. Over recent years two previous attempts have not made it through the smallest of margins.
USCG Illegal charter crackdown continues
The United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) focus on illegal charter operations continues in full force with the latest unlawful operator nabbed in Key West, Florida, just off the community’s legendary Mallory Square. The operator faces fines on up to US$39,936.
More Regulatory News
Netherlands steps up Dutch flag marketing
US Senate spending bill includes boating industry priorities
Transport Canada adopts ABYC marine safety standards
Asia-Pacific yachting moves forward on various fronts
International emissions regs could hurt large diesel yachts, jobs
Greek fleet grows under National Strategic Reference Framework
Port of San Diego drafts illegal charter ordinance
Cayman Coast Guard Commandant joins regulatory push
US boating accidents, deaths down in 2018
NZ builders return to amphibious boat market
Pontoon boat accident leads to calls for rental rule review
Trump blinks on new tariff threat
Poland to launch new yacht registration system in 2020
Inflatable watercraft, paddles gain exemption from US tariff list
Trump threatens additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods
Canadian government implements new legislation to deal with abandoned boats
US Coast Guard funding bill includes key boating industry priorities
EU targets illegal tax breaks for yachts in Cyprus and Italy
UK boaters urged to respond to HMRC consultation on red diesel
Turkey imposes new "tax" on tourist vessels
