The Tokyo MOU on Port State Control is extending its new relaxed regime for shipowners due to the continuing coronavirus crisis.
The "pragmatic and harmonised" approach in the region was first adopted on 12 March, when it asked port state authorities to be flexible on periods of service by crew, and the timing of surveys, inspections and audits, on a case-by-case basis.
This was due to expire on 15 April, but has now been extended indefinitely.
The treaty organisation said: "Taking into account that serious interruptions to the shipping industry become long-lasting as the consequence of the Covid-19 situation changed from epidemic into the world pandemic, Tokyo MOU reviewed and revised the relevant guidance in order to cope with the uncertain circumstances."
It noted that "no end sign of the situation can be expected at the moment".
In March, the Tokyo MOU said it recognised the industry was facing challenges in meeting statutory requirements stipulated in the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 and relevant IMO conventions.
The guidance will be reviewed upon any future initiatives by the IMO or International Labour Organisation or "developments of the situation".
In March, the Paris MOU on Port State Control joined the chorus of maritime organisations calling for a supple application of IMO rules amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The Hague-based treaty organisation said it issued new guidance to its members, which “recognises that there is a need to apply flexibility under these special circumstances”.
