The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has revealed the best and worst flag states in its latest annual survey.
The list ranks registers on a number of criteria such as port state control records, ratification of international maritime conventions and attendance at IMO meetings.
The UK's main flag, plus affiliates Bermuda, Gibraltar, Isle of Man and the Cayman Islands, get green lights for all 18 categories, but the British Virgin Islands misses two criteria.
Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, Russia, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Faroe Islands, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Liberia and Norway also all notched full houses.
In addition, South Korea, Singapore and Portugal were perfect, but Panama and Malta missed by one criteria.
The US failed to win a green light in three categories, including Marpol and ILO-related requirements.
Among the worst performers, Tanzania and Bolivia only gained six ticks and DR Congo just four.
"The table is mainly intended to encourage shipowners and operators to maintain an open dialogue with their flag administrations with respect to any improvements that might be necessary," the ICS said.
ICS director of policy and external relations, Simon Bennett, added: “This year’s ICS table continues to highlight the sound performance of all of the world’s major flag administrations, regardless of whether they are open registers or so called ‘traditional’ maritime flags."
