Maritime Anti-Corruption Network Added Three New Members
ABS, DNV, and RINA have joined the organization to bolster global shipping integrity and transparency efforts.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Cruises
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The Maritime Anti-Corruption Network has officially accepted ABS, DNV, and RINA as its first classification society members. This expansion marks a strategic shift for the network as it seeks to address corruption risks within the global maritime industry.
Why it matters
By integrating these classification societies, the network gains critical technical expertise in vessel design, certification, and construction. This collaboration strengthens the ability of industry participants to enforce transparency standards across international shipping operations.
The Maritime Anti-Corruption Network now counts over 225 members across the global maritime industry. These new additions provide specialized knowledge in vessel surveys, maintenance, and rigorous certification standards.
The players
Maritime Anti-Corruption Network
This global organization was established in 2011 to identify and mitigate corruption risks across the maritime shipping industry.
ABS
This is a classification society that provides technical services for vessel design, construction, and operational certification.
DNV
This organization operates as a classification society, offering expertise in vessel maintenance, surveys, and industry compliance.
RINA
This classification society provides technical certification and safety standards for the global maritime and transport sectors.
The details
Classification societies serve as vital overseers of vessel integrity throughout a ship's lifecycle, from initial design to ongoing maintenance. The inclusion of these organizations follows an authorization by current members in April 2026 to expand the network to include technical experts.
Timeline
The Maritime Anti-Corruption Network was established in 2011.
Network members authorized the inclusion of classification societies in April 2026.
The organization announced the new memberships on September 27, 2026.
Travel Outlook
This integration follows a long-term trend toward greater transparency in international logistics and vessel safety management. It expands the organizational framework established by the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network's 2011 founding mandate.
While these organizational shifts occur behind the scenes, they ultimately support higher safety standards for the vessels used in international travel and cruise itineraries. Travelers can expect ongoing industry efforts to prioritize integrity and mechanical oversight in the ships they choose.
The takeaway
The addition of classification societies provides a stronger technical foundation for maritime integrity. These efforts improve vessel safety and reliability for all stakeholders involved in the global shipping ecosystem.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving standards of the Cruises industry and how global operators maintain safety protocols.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ship & Bunker - Shipping News and Bunker Price Indications.
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