The International Group of P&I Clubs has implemented a new mandatory requirement under mutual cover effective 20 February 2026, requiring members to preserve specific rights of recourse in contracts involving the carriage of dangerous goods.
Under the updated framework, shipowners must ensure contractual terms do not waive recovery rights against shippers in the event of hazardous cargo incidents. The measure applies across the International Group’s member clubs and affects vessels entered under mutual cover.
Clubs have circulated guidance to ensure compliance with the revised recourse preservation requirements.
Why It Matters for Maritime
The change directly impacts charterparty drafting, bills of lading, and cargo documentation for vessels carrying dangerous goods.
Failure to preserve contractual recourse rights may jeopardize P&I cover in the event of cargo-related incidents.
The requirement raises the compliance bar for shipowners, managers, and chartering departments worldwide, particularly in the tanker, chemical, and bulk hazardous trades.
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