We wish to draw members’ attention to HKFOAC Paper No. 4/2026 issued by the Hong Kong Fleet Operation Advisory Committee on 28 May 2026 regarding the strengthened dissemination of information through Merchant Shipping Information Notes (MSINs).

In brief, the Marine Department has reviewed and streamlined its arrangements for disseminating information to shipowners, managers, and operators of Hong Kong-registered ships trading outside Hong Kong waters. Going forward:

• MSINs will remain the single centralised channel for issuing information, guidelines, operational matters, and mandatory legal requirements concerning Hong Kong-registered ships.
• Circular Letters will cease to be issued, with urgent regional or local updates to be communicated where necessary by direct contact (email/telephone).
• Shipowners, managers, and operators may continue to seek clarification and the latest information directly from the Marine Department through their usual contact points.

Members are invited to note this arrangement and ensure their relevant teams continue to monitor MSINs closely.

For further details, please refer to the attached HKFOAC Paper No. 4/2026.