GMS and Liberian Registry issue first IRRC

GMS and the Liberian Registry have issued the world’s first International Ready for Recycling Certificate (IRRC) since the Hong Kong Convention took effect on June 26, 2025.

The certificate was awarded to the vessel R PISCES, making it the first ship globally to meet the Convention’s requirements. This marks a major milestone for the ship recycling industry.

Moreover, the IRRC confirms that R PISCES is fully compliant. The ship has a verified Inventory of Hazardous Materials, an approved Ship Recycling Plan, and a booking at a certified yard. It will be dismantled at Leela Responsible Recycling LLP in Alang, India.

Vishaal Raj Soni, CEO of Leela Group, welcomed the development. “This isn’t just a certificate,” he said. “It’s a benchmark for the future of ship recycling. It shows what’s possible when everyone, from shipowners to cash buyers to flag states, works together.”

Also, Sunil Jaitly, Managing Director of the Liberian Registry in the Middle East, called it a new chapter for the industry. “We’re proud to support rules that improve standards and move the industry forward,” he said.

GMS, the world’s largest buyer of ships for recycling, played a central role in the process. “This proves responsible ship recycling is doable,” said Faidon Panagiotopoulos, Senior Trader at GMS. “With the right preparation and teamwork, we can meet global standards and protect the environment.”

Additionally, Dr. Anand Hiremath, CEO of the Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program (SSORP), said his team helped ensure the process stayed on track. “We made sure all documents, from the IHM to the Ship Recycling Plan, met the requirements,” he said. “Our goal is to help shipowners stay compliant and avoid delays.”

The Hong Kong International Convention sets global rules for safer and cleaner ship recycling. The IRRC confirms a vessel is ready to be recycled under approved and responsible conditions.

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