GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Port State Control

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.parismou.org/

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Definition & Explanation

Unlike flag state oversight, which is exercised by a vessel's home country, Port State Control (PSC) operates at the point of call: coastal authorities inspect foreign ships in their ports for compliance with international safety, environmental, and labour standards, primarily SOLAS, MARPOL, and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). Inspectors assess hull condition, equipment, onboard documentation, and crew working conditions. Serious deficiencies can lead to detention – the ship is held until faults are corrected. PSC inspections are coordinated through regional Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), such as the Paris MoU covering European and North Atlantic waters and the Tokyo MoU covering the Asia-Pacific region. For shipping companies, detention records and deficiency patterns are publicly searchable in databases such as THETIS, making PSC performance a visible indicator of fleet quality.

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Port State Control

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Related Terms

Maritime Cargo Security Standards (ISPS Code)

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