Loading…
Four public rating systems assess the regulatory and labour-rights risk attached to a flag state: the Paris MoU White/Grey/Black performance list, the Tokyo MoU equivalent, the US Coast Guard's QUALSHIP 21 incentive scheme, and the ITF Flag of Convenience campaign list. Each uses a different methodology and serves a different audience. Understanding all four is essential when evaluating a job offer, assessing inspection risk on a trade route, or deciding where to register a vessel.
| System | Basis | Update cycle | Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris MoU | Detention / inspection ratio, 3-year rolling | Annual list | White · Grey · Black |
| Tokyo MoU | Detention / inspection ratio, 3-year rolling | Annual list | White · Grey · Black |
| QUALSHIP 21 (USCG) | Positive incentive — ≤ 1% detention + zero current-year detentions | Quarterly | Listed / Not listed |
| ITF FoC list | Beneficial-ownership test — not a PSC metric | As changed | FoC / Not FoC |
https://www.parismou.org/inspections-risk/performance/criteria-performance-lists
How it is calculated: 3-year rolling ratio of detentions to inspections for all ships of that flag in Paris MoU member ports. Each flag is ranked; those significantly above the mean fall to Grey or Black.
What it means for you: Black = high-risk targeting; expect more frequent, more intrusive PSC inspections in European and North Atlantic ports. Grey = moderate risk. White = low-risk; your ship may qualify for an extended inspection interval under the New Inspection Regime.
https://www.tokyo-mou.org/inspections/flag_performance.php
How it is calculated: Identical 3-year rolling methodology applied to inspections and detentions recorded within the 21 Asia-Pacific member authorities. Performance lists are published annually alongside the Tokyo MoU Annual Report.
What it means for you: A flag can be White in Paris MoU but Grey in Tokyo MoU if its PSC record differs across ocean regions. Check both lists before signing articles, especially if your trade routes include both regions.
How it is calculated: Positive-incentive scheme. A flag qualifies if it has: (1) ≥ 10 USCG examinations in the previous 3 years; (2) a detention rate ≤ 1%; (3) zero detentions in the current year; (4) no outstanding deficiencies. Listed flags receive reduced exam frequency in US ports.
What it means for you: Practical benefit in US-trade routes: QUALSHIP 21 ships are less likely to face a USCG exam. The list is reviewed quarterly. A flag that loses QUALSHIP 21 status may see sudden increases in USCG boarding frequency.
https://www.itfseafarers.org/en/focs/current-foc-flags
How it is calculated: Not a statistical measure. The ITF applies a beneficial-ownership test: if the dominant beneficial ownership and control of a ship is found to be exercised in a country different from the country of the flag, the flag is FoC. The ITF maintains a campaign list updated periodically.
What it means for you: On an FoC ship, ITF-affiliated inspectors may board in any ITF-active port to check whether an ITF/IBF-approved CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) is in force and whether minimum wage scales are being paid. If not, the ITF can call for industrial action. Working under an ITF-approved CBA on an FoC ship provides meaningful wage and repatriation protections.
Ratings shown on this site are sourced from publicly available PSC performance data and ITF campaign lists. Seafarer Index is not affiliated with Paris MoU, Tokyo MoU, USCG, or ITF. Always verify current ratings directly with the issuing authority before making employment or registration decisions.