Bunker Convention Certificate
The Bunker Convention Certificate (BCC) is required by the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) for any ship over 1,000 gross tonnage entering or leaving the port of Singapore, to ensure financial security for bunker oil pollution damage. Validity is agency-confirmed, with processing times available on the agency's website.
- Processing time
- available on the agency's website
- Issuing authority
- MARITIME AND PORT AUTHORITY (MPA)
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Who needs the Bunker Convention Certificate
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Bunker Convention Certificate
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Bunker Convention Certificate (BCC) allows ships with a gross tonnage greater than 1,000 to legally enter or leave the port of Singapore, ensuring compliance with international regulations regarding financial security for oil pollution damage.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before a BCC can be issued, the ship must demonstrate that it has insurance or other financial security in place to cover potential liabilities for bunker oil pollution damage. This includes ensuring that the ship is either carrying oil in bulk or has no residues remaining from previous oil carriage, particularly in cases where the ship is operating in a completely 'clean' condition.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) reviews applications for the BCC as part of the port clearance process. Ships must indicate possession of a valid BCC in their Notification of Arrival (NOA) prior to entering the port. The agency may conduct checks to verify compliance with the Bunker Convention requirements.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the BCC may be delayed due to incomplete documentation regarding financial security or failure to prove that the ship is in a clean condition when required. Additionally, discrepancies in the Notification of Arrival regarding the ship's status can lead to complications, making it crucial for ship operators to ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission.
Bunker Convention Certificate FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, any ship with a gross tonnage greater than 1,000 must possess a Bunker Convention Certificate to legally enter or leave the port of Singapore. Without it, the ship may be denied port access.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once a ship is issued a Bunker Convention Certificate, it can operate within the port of Singapore, ensuring compliance with international regulations regarding bunker oil pollution liability.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating without a valid Bunker Convention Certificate can result in denial of port access, potential fines, and legal liabilities related to oil pollution damage. Compliance is essential for legal operations.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
The Bunker Convention Certificate is specific to maritime operations and is separate from company incorporation. However, it is crucial for businesses involved in shipping to secure this certificate to operate legally in Singapore.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is the inability to demonstrate adequate financial security for oil pollution liabilities or failure to prove that the ship is in a clean condition when required.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can obtain a Bunker Convention Certificate for their vessels, provided they meet the necessary requirements regarding financial security and compliance with the Bunker Convention.
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Other MPA licences
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