SMART-C Leaders : SMART-C Projects

Capacity-Building for Implementation of IMO conventions and Professional Training for International Maritime Leaders (Pacific Region)

Capacity Building for Maritime Professionals in the Pacific Region

The SMART-C Leaders Project, implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the IMO–Republic of Korea (RoK) SMART-C Partnership Programme, is a capacity-building initiative that supports Tonga and Vanuatu, as Lead Pilot Countries, in strengthening Port State Control (PSC) and Flag State Implementation (FSI) through improvements to their legal frameworks and administrative structures. The project also supports the implementation of Corrective Action Plans under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), while enhancing the professional competencies of maritime officials through targeted training, technical assistance and knowledge sharing. By promoting the exchange of experience and best practices, the project contributes to stronger maritime governance and more effective implementation of IMO instruments across the wider Pacific region.

Contributing to the UN SDGs:

Beneficiary Countries

Lead Pilot Countries

Tonga

Vanuatu

Partner Countries

Cook Islands

Fiji

Kiribati

Marshall Islands

Naoero

Palau

Papua New Guinea

Samoa

Solomon Islands

Tuvalu

Project Components

Professional training for the international maritime leaders

The Project strengthens the capacity of Pacific countries to effectively implement IMO instruments through tailored maritime training programmes delivered at both national and regional levels. These programmes target government officials, maritime professionals, Port State Control Officers (PSCOs), Flag State Implementation Officers (FSIOs), and officials participating in IMO meetings. By fostering knowledge sharing and peer learning through regional programmes among Pacific SIDS, the project enhances technical expertise, promotes the consistent implementation of IMO instruments, and supports sustainable development across the region.

Developing skilled Maritime Leaders to support the future of global Maritme sector- Tonga

Empowering Maritime leaders to drive safe, sustainable, and effective Maritme Governance-Vanuatu

Supporting to strengthen national legal, regulatory and administrative frameworks

The SMART-C Leaders Project supports Pacific counties in strengthening their legal, regulatory and administrative frameworks for the effective domestication and implementation of IMO instruments. Through legislative drafting support and tailored technical assistance, the project assists Tonga and Vanuatu in reviewing and updating national legislation, clarifying institutional responsibilities, and enhancing the effectiveness of maritime administrations. It also builds regional capacity among Pacific SIDS that are IMO Member States on the transposition and implementation of IMO instruments.

Turning Knowledge into action: Practical Drafting Exercise –Tonga

Practical Learning to Action: Drafting Exercise –Vanuatu

Strengthening Administrative Framework to enhance effective Maritime governance-Tonga

Strengthening Capacity-Collaborative Practical Legislative Drafting Exercise-Tonga

From policy to practice: Strengthening Vanuatu Legal and Administrative Framework

From policy to practice: Strengthening Tonga Legal and Administrative Framework

Supporting effective implementation of IMSAS Corrective Action Plans

The SMART-C Leaders Project assisted lead pilot countries in the effective implementation of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) developed following audits under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Through gap identification, practical action planning, targeted training and expert technical assistance, the project helps countries address audit findings, strengthen their capacity to fulfil obligations under mandatory IMO instruments, and enhance overall maritime governance.

Practical oil spill Response drill under the IMSAS CAP-Tonga

Enhancing Emergency Response capacity through oil spill Simulation-Vanuatu

Enhancing digital support for PSC information sharing and connectivity

The SMART-C Leaders Project supports the development of an overarching web service to strengthen Port State Control (PSC) implementation through improved digital solutions and data integration. Building on an assessment of existing IT infrastructure and data available in the GISIS, the project develops a concept for an integrated web service in close cooperation with PSC regimes. These efforts enhance information sharing, support risk-based PSC activities, and strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of Port State Control implementation.