Regulatory Framework
Hong Kong Convention
FoilDock Panama's compliance framework for the IMO Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.
Hong Kong International Convention (HKC)
The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) is the primary international framework governing ship recycling. FoilDock Panama's entire operational model — including the FOIL Basin technology, the 9-step SAFE Recycling Cycle, and documentation systems — is designed and built around full HKC compliance.
The Hong Kong Convention, adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2009 and entering into force, sets out requirements for ship design and construction (to facilitate safe recycling), the operation of ships (including the Inventory of Hazardous Materials), and ship recycling facilities (which must be authorised under a recognised administration).
FoilDock Panama's facility design implements the full HKC framework: the FOIL Basin contained dry-dock eliminates the beaching method condemned by the Convention; the 9-step SAFE Recycling Cycle documents every stage of the recycling process; and FoilDock Panama's documentation systems produce the Ship Recycling Plan, IHM, and Statement of Completion for every vessel processed.
As the sole authorised GREENDOCK licensee in Panama, FoilDock Panama operates under a licence structure that embeds HKC compliance at the operational level — providing vessel owners with the highest available level of regulatory assurance for their end-of-life fleet obligations.
Key Requirements
Authorised Facility
Ship recycling must take place only at facilities authorised by a Party to the Convention. FoilDock Panama's facility is being developed and authorised under the Republic of Panama's HKC implementation framework.
Inventory of Hazardous Materials
Every vessel must have a current IHM. FoilDock Panama provides certified IHM survey and documentation services, identifying all regulated substances on board prior to recycling.
Ship Recycling Plan
A vessel-specific SRP must be prepared, detailing how the recycling will be carried out in accordance with HKC requirements. FoilDock Panama prepares all SRPs to IMO standard.
No Beaching
The Hong Kong Convention prohibits the beaching method of ship recycling. FoilDock Panama's FOIL Basin dry-dock is specifically engineered to eliminate beaching and provide a fully contained recycling environment.
- ✓Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) for all vessels
- ✓Ship Recycling Plan (SRP) prepared and approved
- ✓Authorised ship recycling facility
- ✓No beaching or unsafe recycling methods
- ✓Worker safety and health management system
- ✓Environmental management and waste handling
- ✓Statement of Completion issued upon recycling