Hazardous Cargo Treaty moves closer to entry into force after new ratifications
A key international treaty aimed at strengthening compensation for maritime incidents involving hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) has moved significantly closer to entering into force, following new ratifications by four European countries.
Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden have formally deposited their instruments of ratification for the 2010 HNS Convention with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The move brings the total number of contracting States to 12—meeting the minimum threshold required under the treaty.
The convention is designed to ensure prompt and effective compensation for victims of incidents involving hazardous cargoes transported by sea, including chemicals, oils, and alternative fuels. Its relevance has grown alongside increasing global shipments of such substances.
Entry into Force Timeline
While the number of participating States now satisfies one key requirement, the treaty also depends on cargo volume thresholds. Specifically, it will enter into force 18 months after contracting States collectively report at least 40 million tonnes of contributing HNS cargo in a single year.
Recent data suggests that threshold is within reach. The four newly ratifying countries reported nearly 28 million tonnes of HNS cargo in 2025, while the existing eight contracting States recorded more than 22 million tonnes in 2024. Final confirmation will follow reporting due by 31 May 2026, with the earliest possible entry into force projected for 30 November 2027.
Compensation and Liability Framework
The 2010 HNS Convention establishes a comprehensive liability and compensation regime based on the “polluter pays” principle. Shipowners will bear strict liability up to a defined limit and must maintain mandatory insurance coverage.
If damages exceed that limit, compensation will be provided through a dedicated HNS Fund, financed by contributions from companies receiving hazardous cargoes. The total compensation available per incident is capped at 250 million Special Drawing Rights (approximately $360 million).
The convention covers a wide range of risks, including pollution, fire, and explosion, as well as loss of life, personal injury, and property damage.
Industry Impact
Once in force, the regime is expected to apply to an estimated 65,000 ships worldwide, all of which will be required to carry certified insurance or financial security.
The treaty will complement existing international frameworks governing oil pollution, bunker fuel damage, and maritime passenger claims—closing a significant gap in the global maritime liability system.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez welcomed the latest ratifications, describing them as a major step toward strengthening protections for communities and ecosystems affected by hazardous cargo incidents at sea.