World’s Largest Ship Registry Urges Shipowners To Tighten Seafarer Checks As Sanctions Risks Grow

The Liberian Registry has asked shipowners, managers, crewing agencies and operators to review and strengthen their seafarer compliance systems as global regulations and sanctions enforcement become stricter.

In a recent statement, the Registry said the regulatory environment has changed and the industry now needs to go beyond checking vessels and cargo. It said more attention must be given to seafarers, their documents and identity verification processes.

Alfonso Castillero, Chief Executive Officer of the Registry, said the industry must adapt to these changes. He stated that the Registry has invested heavily in compliance safeguards and monitoring systems, and is setting a higher standard while urging others to follow stricter processes.

The warning comes at a time when regulators are focusing more on sanctions evasion networks. These include shadow fleets, fake documents and unclear ownership structures. The Registry pointed out that weak checks on seafarers and their certificates can create risks in such cases.

To deal with this, the Registry’s Seafarer Certification and Documentation Department is upgrading its systems using new digital tools. These systems will include built-in compliance checks at every stage of the seafarer application and certification process, allowing monitoring from the first step to final document issuance.

The Registry said these changes will help improve identity checks, ensure better tracking of records and maintain the reliability of documents issued under its flag, in line with international rules.

It also highlighted that it has long focused on quality and compliance. Its systems are applied from the first interaction with seafarers, vessels and companies, and are regularly maintained to meet global regulations and reduce risks for clients and partners.

The steps are part of a wider shift in the maritime industry, where digital systems are being used to improve compliance and transparency.

In a similar move, the Bahamas Maritime Authority partnered with IDsure in November 2025 to introduce secure digital Seafarer Record Books and Certificates of Competency.

The Liberian Registry said its latest efforts are aimed at supporting safe vessel operations, protecting seafarers and maintaining the credibility of its flag as the global regulatory environment becomes more complex.

References: safety4sea, Liberian Registry