Shipping Offshore
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2023
Safety first: The position on demurrage
The High Court has clarified when a shipowner may disregard charterers' voyage instructions without interrupting demurrage, in a decision which underlines the obligation on voyage charterers to choose safe ports and safe berths for the vessel to proceed to.
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2022
BIMCO Infectious or contagious diseases clause for time charter parties 2022
In anticipation of possible cases of future pandemics and epidemics, BIMCO redrafted its 2015 Infectious or Contagious Disease Clause for Time Charter Parties, providing more clarity for shipowners and charters when it comes to risk and costs obligations as a consequence of disruption and delay.
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2022
EU Emissions Trading System to expand to shipping from 1 January 2024
After prolonged negotiations, the EU has agreed to include maritime emissions in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) from 1 January 2024.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Renewable energy and infrastructure
2022
Contracts for Difference in Shipping: The Zero-Emissions Catalyst?
Although more typically associated with the renewables space, Contracts for Difference (CfDs) are increasingly being considered as a key part of the puzzle in achieving a zero-emissions future in the shipping sector.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
BIMCO completes its suite of CII, EEXI and ETS time charter clauses
BIMCO has recently published three new clauses which seek to balance Owners’ and Charterers’ respective interests under time charters in relation to the obligations imposed by the CII, EEXI and EU ETS.
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Shipping Offshore, Data Protection
2022
Transfer of employee information outside of China under PIPL and the new Draft Standard Contract
The Cyberspace Administration of China has issued a draft standard contract for cross-border transfers of personal information out of China which will, if adopted, constitute a valid transfer mechanism under the Chinese Personal Information Protection Law. Both the transferring entity and the overseas recipient must still be aware of additional data protection requirements related to cross-border transfers, including reporting requirements.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2022
Limitation of liability in light of the MSC Flaminia (No.2) case
The right to limit liability for claims is a cornerstone and unique feature of maritime law. Limitation issues are a particularly important consideration in the aftermath of large scale casualties as the ability to limit liability may significantly reduce the financial exposure for a party and its insurers.
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2022
GENCON 2022 – BIMCO’s new flagship contract
On 25 October 2022, BIMCO published an updated version of GENCON, the most widely used dry bulk voyage charter party form worldwide. BIMCO also took the opportunity to update the accompanying CONGENBILL.
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Shipping Offshore, Insurance Law
2022
The 2023 revision of the Nordic Plan
The Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013, version 2023, has recently been approved following negotiations between the Nordic shipowner associations and the Nordic Association of Marine Insurers.
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Shipping Offshore, Compliance and crisis management, International sanctions and export control
2022
The year of sanctions – some lessons learnt
The massive and unprecedented sanctions imposed against Russia have required significant efforts to manage the risks and impact of sanctions, particularly in view of creative attempts to circumvent by some parties. In this article we explain why you should update your sanctions clause, and how to ensure that it is fit for purpose.
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2022
ESG and the Chinese Shipping Industry
ESG has been developing for decades internationally, in particular in the West, but has not been as well known in mainland China until more recently. Now, however, ESG is increasingly seen as a political priority aligned with the goal of “common prosperity” and therefore firmly on the agenda of large Chinese companies. This includes many shipping companies, where it is also expected that China’s push within green shipping will lead to more mandatory ESG obligations being introduced.
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2022
The future of Lloyd’s Open Form
The Lloyd’s Open Form survives – but its future remains uncertain.
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Sustainability, Shipping Offshore, Technology and digitalisation, Renewable energy and infrastructure, Ocean Industries, Employment Law, Litigation and Arbitration
2022
With One Ocean Expedition from Singapore to Jakarta: - An experience for life
The exotic trip on board Statsraad Lehmkuhl in the Southeast Asia will not be forgotten by Kamilla Hope Kleppenes and Ingrid Weltzien anytime soon. Read their travelogue and see the beautiful photos from their fantastic trip!
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Renewable energy, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Changes to the Norwegian Offshore Energy Act – one step closer
On 30 September 2022, the offshore energy sector got one step closer to the starting block, as the Government submitted a proposal for changes to the Norwegian Offshore Energy Act to the Norwegian Parliament (the Proposition).
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2022
LMAA seminar: Changing with the times
As honoured hosts, we are delighted to invite you to this informative LMAA seminar and forum discussion taking place on Monday 26 September 2022. Details about this event can be found below in the Event Schedule.
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Shipping Offshore, International sanctions and export control, International Arbitration, Litigation and Arbitration
2022
MUR Shipping v RTI: "reasonable endeavours" in the age of sanctions
If a contract requires payment in a certain currency and, as a result of sanctions, payment cannot be made in that currency, does the obligation to use "reasonable endeavours" to overcome a force majeure event (such as payment issues relating to sanctions) require payment in a different currency? The English Commercial Court recently held that it does not.
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2022
Read our Shipping Offshore Update July 2022
In this Shipping Offshore Update we seek to address the legal developments relating to the shipping and offshore markets
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2022
How to navigate China’s anti-sanctions laws amidst the sanctions against Russia
The sweeping sanctions implemented against Russia give renewed relevance to the Chinese countermeasures to foreign companies with operations in China or doing business with Chinese counterparties. Companies should tread carefully to avoid falling foul of Chinese legislation.
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2022
SHIPSALE 22—a familiar form in a new guise
On 21 April 2022 BIMCO released SHIPSALE 22, its new standard contract for sale/purchase of vessels.
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2022
BIMCO standard form refund guarantee for shipbuilding contracts
Refund Guarantees secure repayment to the buyer of the pre-delivery instalments paid under a shipbuilding contract (an “SBC”) in the event of termination of the SBC due to builder’s default or insolvency or the total loss of the ship under construction. Having the benefit of a refund guarantee is therefore of key importance to the buyer under a shipbuilding contract.
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Fisheries and Aquaculture, Shipping Offshore
2022
New technologies in aquaculture
New technology in aquaculture is enabling offshore farming and the increased use of closed cages. New regulations may trigger significant investments in the years to come, resulting in an increased demand for new building and supply services.
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Shipping Offshore, Ship and rig recycling
2022
“Harrier” – the first beaching case heard by Norwegian courts ends with a six month prison sentence for the shipowner
In a recent decision, the Norwegian Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal from a Norwegian shipowner over the Court of Appeal’s decision, which upheld the District Court’s conviction and sentencing of the shipowner to six months in prison for participating in an attempt to illegally export the barge carrier “Harrier” from Norway for demolition at Gadani, Pakistan.
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2022
War and warlike operations in a time of uncertainty
The outbreak of war can have serious consequences on charterparties of all kinds and it is therefore no surprise that the industry has developed several standard clauses to clarify the parties’ obligations in such uncertain times.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2022
Report on the safety of cruise traffic in Norwegian waters
In the spring of 2019, the cruise vessel “Viking Sky” suffered engine failure and almost grounded. Nearly three years later, a Norwegian Official Report (NOU 2022: 1) on how to reduce the risk of casualties within the cruise sector has been published.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2022
Progress towards a treaty on plastic pollution
In March of this year, the United Nations passed an historic resolution which may result in a legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution in the oceans.
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Shipping Offshore, Renewable energy and infrastructure, China
2022
Status on China’s offshore wind power development
Mainland China has become the largest offshore wind market in the world. An overall industry chain has been established which encompasses complete offshore wind installation and operation, as well as maintenance and spare parts manufacturing, presenting an attractive market for both domestic and foreign companies.
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2022
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine – force majeure and frustration – The English and Norwegian perspective
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has caused untold human suffering, severe disruption to global trade and property damage. It has also led parties to closely examine contracts with a Russian connection to see if they can be suspended or terminated lawfully.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Recent developments in Fuel EU Maritime proposal
On 2 June 2022 the European transport ministers adopted a "general approach" to the FuelEU Maritime proposal. This marked an important step in the legislative process. Although some provisions have been proposed changed, the proposed scope of the regulation (both geographical and with respect to the type of vessels that the regulation will apply to) has been kept the same.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
MARPOL Annex VI: EEXI and CII – can your contracts cope?
Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI aimed at improving the technical and operational efficiencies of all types of ships were adopted by the IMO in June 2021. These amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2023. The amendments introduce the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), a technical measure concerned with a ship’s design, and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), an operational measure concerned with a ship’s trading and operation.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
The EU Taxonomy in the maritime transport industry
In the maritime sector, several measures are needed in order to reduce emissions to the extent necessary, and the EU Commission approach this challenge by presenting a basket of measures, one of them being the EU Taxonomy. By setting harmonised criteria for determining whether an economic activity qualifies as environmentally sustainable, it is intended to incentivise the greening of the sector.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Key aspects of the new FuelEU Maritime proposal
On 14 July 2021, the European Commission presented a package of proposals aimed at ensuring that the European Union achieves its goals of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. The proposals include, among other things, the new FuelEU Maritime initiative, specifically aimed at the shipping industry.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Transition-linked financing: The transition to a greener shipping industry
A group of Nordic market participants have through the Green Shipping Programme produced a new set of Guidelines for Transition-Linked Financing (TLF) supporting the transition to net zero emissions in the shipping industry by 2050.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Legal challenges with cross border transportation of CO2
According to the report “Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change”, published 4 April 2022, carbon capture and storage (CCS) is essential in order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and reach the climate goals. When establishing an international value chain for CCS, the industry will have to work within the international rules and framework. This article focuses on the restrictions on export of CO2 in the “London Dumping Regime”, especially the London Protocol.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
The green transition and support in the operational phase
The maritime sector has for many years been actively developing new technology which aims to ensure that the green transition and the climate goals can be achieved. The sector is now close to being ready to take the next steps. However, unless some form of public support is introduced for the operational phase, the transition will likely take more time than some may wish for.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
The EU ETS and Shipping – updates and unanswered questions
Since the European Commission on 14 July 2021 proposed to extend the scope of its Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to include emissions from shipping, several stakeholders have evaluated, commented on and assessed the proposal. This article examines some of the most debated and uncertain aspects.
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2022
Wikborg Rein London advise on deal to strengthen Germany's gas security
Acting as counsel to Dynagas, our team in London advised on the charter of two FSRUs which will assist in diversifying and strengthening Germany's security of gas supply .
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability
2022
Green Shipping – Actions to embrace the transition
In this seminar we will together with key industry players discuss where we are in the green shipping transition, what we expect as the next steps and what actions we should take to adapt.
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Ranking, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Financing, Capital Markets, Compliance and crisis management, Mergers and Acquisitions, Dispute Resolution, Restructuring and Insolvency, Shipping Offshore, Competition law, Contract and Construction, Employment Law, Renewable energy and infrastructure, Intellectual Property, Commercial Property, Tax Law, Technology and digitalisation
2022
Wikborg Rein top ranked in Chambers Europe 2022
We are very pleased to announce that we have also in 2022 taken another step up in Chambers Europe, an annual ranking guide for Europe's leading law firms.
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2022
Women in law series: Eleanor Midwinter
In celebration of the International Women's Day on March 8th we’ve asked some of our female lawyers from across our international offices what it’s like being a woman in law today. Read our last interview with Eleanor Midwinter.
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Shipping Offshore, Ship and rig recycling, Career
2022
Women in law series: Ina Lutchmiah
In celebration of the International Women's Day on March 8th we’ve asked some of our female lawyers from across our international offices what it’s like being a woman in law today. Read our fourth interview – this time with Ina Lutchmiah.
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2021
Read our Shipping Offshore Update December 2021
In this Shipping Offshore Update we seek to address the legal developments relating to the shipping and offshore markets
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Shipping Offshore, Capital Markets
2021
Shipping Boom on the Norwegian stock market
After a period of strong headwinds, the shipping industry sets course for historic annual results. High demand for goods combined with a lack of supply and a lean world fleet has driven freight rates and shipping shares through the roof.
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Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Environmental law, Sustainability
2021
Decarbonisation in shipping – the EU proposals
On 14 July 2021 the European Commission published its “Fit for 55” package setting out various legislative proposals to enable the EU to reach its objective to reduce emissions by at least 55% by 2030 (as compared to 1990 levels).
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Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability, Environmental law
2021
The EU ETS expands to shipping
One of the most talked about and controversial aspects of the EU’s proposed “Fit for 55” package is the European Commission’s proposal for a revised Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). This article examines the proposal and details its potential impact on the shipping industry.
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Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability, Environmental law
2021
Key aspects of FuelEU Maritime proposal
On 14 June 2021, the European Commission presented a package of proposals aimed at ensuring that the European Union achieves its goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. The proposals include, amongst other things, the new FuelEU Maritime initiative, specifically aimed at the shipping industry.
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Shipping Offshore, Environmental law
2021
The right to claim deprivation interest in pollution incidents in Norway
Norwegian authorities normally respond to an oil spill or other type of pollution along the Norwegian coast by initiating a state-led operation, often involving significant costs. A recent amendment to the Norwegian Pollution Act has created a statutory legal basis for the authorities, when claiming reimbursement from the owners, to include a claim for so-called deprivation interest as from the time the relevant costs were incurred.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2021
Limitation of liability for collisions claims in respect of wreck removal expenses
A recent decision in the Norwegian proceedings relating to the collision between the Norwegian navy frigate “Helge Ingstad” and the oil tanker “Sola TS” saw Hordaland District Court weigh in on a question that has been the subject of international debate for some time. The court held that the Norwegian state’s indemnity claim against the owners of the “TS Sola” in respect of the costs of the removal of the wreck of the “Helge Ingstad” is subject to the limitation amount for claims in respect of property damage and not the separate and higher limitation amount for claims in respect of clean-up and wreck removal.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2021
Are lawyers’ notes from crew interviews legally privileged?
In another recent decision in the Norwegian proceedings relating to the collision between the Norwegian navy frigate “Helge Ingstad” and the oil tanker “Sola TS”, the Gulating Court of Appeal has held (LG-2021-115658) that notes taken by lawyers from crew interviews were legally privileged and such privilege had not been waived by disclosure in the proceedings of a report referencing content from those notes.
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2021
Eternal Bliss did not last forever for shipowners Court of Appeal overturns decision narrowing scope of demurrage
The High Court decision last year in The Eternal Bliss changed the landscape for owners and voyage charterers by establishing that damages in excess of demurrage can be claimed by owners, even where the only breach was the failure to load and discharge within the laytime. Demurrage had previously been thought to be a complete code for damages caused by that breach. Judgment has now been handed down in the Court of Appeal overturning that decision.
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2021
Whose liability is it anyway? Apache UK Investment Limited v Esso Exploration and Production UK Limited (2021) EWHC 128
On the 17 May 2021, the Commercial Court clarified the proper interpretation of the Petroleum Act 1998, dealing specifically with the extent of previous licensees’ liability in decommissioning programmes.
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Shipping Offshore, Dispute Resolution
2021
Tiered dispute resolution clauses – problems in drafting
There are various forms of tiered dispute resolution clauses requiring negotiation and/or mediation before arbitration, and difficulties may arise when the procedure is not followed. A recent English case, NWA and Other v NVF and Others [2021] EWHC 2666, has added further insight to the interpretation of these clauses and the need for clarity in their drafting.
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2021
High Court provides further guidance on implied terms under English law
In the shipping and offshore industry, guarantees are frequently given as security for a legal promise for performance of a separate or primary contract. However, as guarantees are themselves a form of security, do they also contain an implied term that security cannot be sought for breaches of their provisions? That question was recently answered by the High Court in CVLC Three Carrier Corp v Arab Maritime Petroleum Transport Company [2021] EWHC 551 (Comm).
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2021
Always on demand? – Shanghai Shipyard Co Ltd v Reignwood International Investment (Group) Company Limited
On 23 July 2021, in a decision with potentially far-reaching implications for the shipbuilding industry and for guarantees generally, the Court of Appeal issued a judgment addressing what makes a guarantee issued by an entity other than a financial institution a “demand guarantee" rather than a “see to it guarantee”.
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2021
Equipment leasing in the maritime industry – protection of legal title
Companies leasing out equipment for use on board vessels need to be mindful of the legal risks and challenges in protecting legal title to their equipment. In this article we have highlighted potential threats and possible measures of mitigation.
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2021
MARPOL Annex VI – EEXI AND CII – can your contracts cop?
The IMO recently introduced amendments to MARPOL Annex VI aimed at improving the technical and operational efficiencies of all types of ships. These amendments are expected to enter into force as soon as 1 January 2023. The amendments introduce the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), a technical measure concerned with ship design, and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), an operational measure concerned with a ship’s trading and operation.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
From East Anglia to East Asia: A commercial perspective on the development of offshore wind in Taiwan and further afield
Alex Hookway, a Senior Lawyer in Wikborg Rein's Renewables Team, sat down with Sam Stout, Managing Director of Colebrook Offshore1 in London. They discussed the current status of offshore wind in the Asia-Pacific, the (sometimes painful) lessons learned from the early wind farms in Taiwan and further afield, and what's next for wind energy in the region.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Coming of age, what to do with mature wind farms? extend, repower or decommission?
At a time when many nations are expecting an explosion of new leasing rounds to meet the gap left by the phasing out of fossil fuels (and in some jurisdictions, nuclear power), it might seem odd to consider the ‘end of life’ options for wind farms – whether lifetime extension, repowering or decommissioning. However, wind turbines have an operational lifetime of 20-25 years. For the original offshore developments in the North Sea, this may be shorter as technology, fabrication and construction knowledge has developed rapidly over the past 20 years.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Post-Trump: The Winds of Change Opportunities for offshore wind farm installation vessels in the US
Despite the USA having what has been described as a “globally significant wind resource”, the development of the offshore wind industry in the United States has had something of a slow start, with only 5 electricity generating turbines currently in operation in US offshore waters with generating capacity of only around 30 MW.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, China, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Offshore wind projects in China: Key legal issues
For those who are interested in the Chinese offshore wind market, it is crucial to understand that the Chinese regulatory framework for this sector is complicated and comprehensive, covering the whole value chain.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Charterparties for wind turbine installation vessels
An important part of every offshore wind project is the installation of wind turbines. Installation of modern bottom-fixed offshore wind parks require specialised turbine installation vessels (WTIVs) to perform impressive lifts in challenging conditions. Currently, there is limited number of vessels available for these projects, in particular as wind parks are developed further offshore and with larger turbines. The charters for WTIVs are often fixed a couple of years prior to the project execution and accordingly, negotiation of the charterparties for these vessels is critical for a project’s success.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
BIMCO ASVTIME
Earlier this year BIMCO expanded their suite of offshore contracts by launching the new standard time charter for accommodation support vessels. Wikborg Rein participated in BIMCO’s drafting committee for the form, and set out an overview of its key features below.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2021
Floating offshore wind: How to structure technology development
Technology development within offshore wind, particularly floating offshore wind, is expected to continue at a significant pace in the coming years. How could such technology development be structured, and what should the involved parties be aware of and take into consideration?
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, State aid and EU/EEA law, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2021
State Aid for Offshore Wind
There is no doubt that offshore wind needs considerable public support in order to be financially viable. However, such support must first pass the threshold of EEA state aid law. How can state aid for offshore wind be granted legally, and what sources of state aid are available in Norway and the EU?
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries, Financing
2021
Debt Capital Financing of offshore wind projects
Offshore wind projects will play an important role in meeting the world’s need and demand for sustainable energy going forward. Offshore wind projects make an attractive investment, due to, among other factors, their stable and heavily regulated nature, as well as their green profile and the possibility of long term cash flows.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Offshore wind power purchase agreements
Power purchase agreements (PPAs) often play a crucial role in project financing of renewable energy projects, including offshore wind. Having a PPA in place to secure the revenue stream for a renewable energy project is often a necessity to attract banks and other project financiers. While a PPA may make an offshore wind project bankable, there are several considerations to be made in the drafting of a PPA. In this article we take a closer look at some important questions surrounding those considerations.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Ocean Industries, Sustainability, Shipping Offshore
2021
Marine spatial conflicts: Offshore wind – Increased pressure on Norway’s marine areas
Norway’s large sea areas remain one of the country’s most important advantages in the global transition to a greener and more sustainable society. Solving the global climate challenges includes investments in measures such as ocean-based transport, restoration of marine ecosystems, seafood, storage of carbon in the ocean floor and ocean-based renewable energy. While these activities can help reduce the carbon footprint, they may also lead to increased activity in the sea areas already used for other types of (traditional) marine activities.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, State aid and EU/EEA law, Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Distribution of congestion revenue from interconnectors
Offshore renewable energy plays a key role in achieving the EU’s climate and energy goals set out in the European Green Deal. The EU aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, and to become the first carbon-neutral continent by 2050.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2021
Auctions as an allocation tool – how auctions can be tailored to reduce uncertainty
Norway is in the process of opening up for establishment of offshore wind production. One option is the use of auctions to allocate exclusive rights for this purpose. Industry players have raised concerns in particular due to uncertain prerequisites for these auctions. In this article, we point out that uncertainty might be mitigated by tailoring the auctions, and we give examples on how uncertainty can be reduced.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2021
How to manage regulatory risks in your joint venture agreement
Several large companies have recently teamed up in consortiums, announcing their interest in the development of Norway’s first large scale offshore wind farms in the Utsira Nord and Sørlige Nordsjø II areas in the North Sea. At the same time, the Norwegian energy authorities are carrying out a revision of the Offshore Energy Act, the Offshore Energy Act Regulations, and the guidelines for the offshore wind concession process, leaving many unanswered questions in the regulatory landscape.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Sustainability, Shipping Offshore
2021
IPCEI Hydrogen – kick-starting Europe’s hydrogen revolution
High costs and low demand have hindered the creation of an emissions-free hydrogen market. With IPCEI Hydrogen, the EU’s new gigantic push to bring together public and private hydrogen investments, the hydrogen market may finally have its much needed kick-start.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Sustainability, Shipping Offshore
2021
Hydrogen as a maritime fuel and the shipping industry’s need for transition
In the coming decades, the shipping industry will have to make a transition to sustainable fuels and energy carriers. Hydrogen has been highlighted as one of the means to achieve this transition, and in Norway several interesting projects are currently ongoing.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Sustainability, Shipping Offshore
2021
Marine transportation solutions and applications of hydrogen – contractual considerations for hydrogen projects and the hydrogen value chain
The hydrogen industry is undergoing rapid development, in particular due to the ever-increasing focus on reducing the carbon footprint and emissions across all businesses and industries. Hydrogen has a wide range of applications, and projects of various scales are being developed to cater for the varying local- and end-users’ needs. As a result, a variety of contractual frameworks and structures will likely emerge – both on a project-by-project basis and regarding the hydrogen value chain as a whole.
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Sustainability, Shipping Offshore
2021
Key aspects of FuelEU Maritime proposal
On 14 June 2021 the European Commission presented a package of proposals that are aimed at ensuring that the European Union achieves its goals of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. The proposals include, among other things, the new FuelEU Maritime initiative and the proposed implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (the ETS) and the EU Energy Taxation Directive (the ETD) for the shipping sector.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Gas Dispute, Shipping Offshore
2021
Hydrogen – is it rocket science?
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2021
High Court provides further guidance on implied terms under English law
In the shipping and offshore industry, guarantees are frequently given as security to legally promise the performance of a separate or primary contract. For example, they are: given by parent companies in support of charterparties entered into by their subsidiaries; an essential documentary component of the shipbuilding process; and often a condition precedent to contracts awarded for the construction of large offshore energy projects.
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2021
Always on demand?
In a decision with potentially far reaching implications for the shipbuilding industry and for guarantees generally, the English Court of Appeal on 23 July issued a judgment (Shanghai Shipyard Co. Ltd v Reignwood International Investment (Group) Company Limited [2021] EWCA Civ 1147) addressing what makes a guarantee issued by someone other than a financial institution a "demand" guarantee versus a "see to it" guarantee.
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2021
Read our Shipping Offshore Update June 2021
In this Shipping Offshore Update we seek to address the legal developments relating to the shipping and offshore markets
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2021
ASBAGASVOY 2020 – a new voyage charter for gas tankers
BIMCO and the Association of Ship Brokers & Agents (“ASBA”) recently released a dedicated gas tanker voyage charterparty, the ASBAGASVOY 2020. The form is a based on the well-established ASBATANKVOY form for product tankers and has been developed in response to the growth of the gas spot market.
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2021
CO2 transportation and storage agreements – is it rocket science?
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects have been referred to as “moon landings”. One may presume that, along with some of the technology, the underlying business and contracts are also something akin to rocket science. However, a closer look reveals major similarities to the gas sales business and gas sales agreements rather than something more ground breaking.
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2021
Ship recycling – ongoing liabilities for shipowners
The English Court of Appeal has in a recent judgment (Hamida Begum v Maran (UK) Limited [2021] EWCA Civ 326) upheld the High Court’s decision to decline to strike out a claim against a UK ship manager for the death of a shipyard worker in Bangladesh following a demolition sale.
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2021
Shipbuilding Notice of defects – possible traps for the buyer and the builder
A Norwegian Supreme Court decision from last year provides guidance on the importance of a buyer giving notice of defects in due time, as well as the importance of a builder reserving its rights before entering into discussions on the merits of those defects.
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2021
Deep sea mining – preparing the ground
The Norwegian Government has initiated a process for the potential opening up of deep sea mining on the Norwegian continental shelf. What is the legal framework for such developments and how does the Norwegian Government foresee that this process will be conducted?
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2021
The shipbuilder’s interpellation right – Obtaining clarity in a delayed shipbuilding project
Delay in shipbuilding projects may ultimately grant the buyer a cancellation right, thereby giving rise to both legal and economic risks for the shipbuilder. Under the circumstances, the builder’s “interpellation” right can help mitigate those risks and provide clarity for both parties.
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2021
Updated BIMCO contracts for towage and barge hire
BIMCO has recently published new editions of the widely used TOWHIRE, TOWCON and BARGEHIRE contract forms, which were last revised in 2008. The amendments are intended to improve legal clarity and bring the contracts more in line with current commercial practice.
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Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore
2021
Two new partners
We have the pleasure of announcing that Caroline Skaar Landsværk and Eleanor Midwinter have been appointed partners in Wikborg Rein. Caroline fits perfectly into the company's strategy and focus on renewable energy and sustainability in the energy sector and Eleanor's appointment will help maintain and build upon our already significant Shipping, Offshore and Commodities practice.
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Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries, Sustainability
2021
Green shipping: governmental support scheme for green offshore vessels
In furtherance of its ambition to cutting CO2 emissions from the short sea shipping industry in Norway by 50 % within 2030, the Norwegian government today announced that NOK 150 million has been earmarked for 2021 to support green investments in offshore vessels.
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Financing, Ranking, Capital Markets, Mergers and Acquisitions, Dispute Resolution, Litigation and Arbitration, Oil and gas, Intellectual Property, Shipping Offshore, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Financial Regulation, Competition law, M&A, Employment Law, Renewable energy
2021
Chambers Europe 2021
We are pleased to announce that Wikborg Rein is consolidating our strong position in the Chambers Europe 2021 Guide launched today.
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Shipping Offshore, Renewable energy
2021
BIMCO ASVTIME
BIMCO has today expanded their suite of offshore contracts by launching the new standard time charter for accommodation support vessels. Wikborg Rein participated in BIMCO's drafting committee for the form and set out an overview of its key features below.
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2021
UK Supreme Court hands down judgment in its first collision case
The Collision Regulations are the "rules of the road" for mariners navigating vessels worldwide. Historically, English law has played an extensive role in shaping their interpretation and understanding. However, it has been nearly 50 years since a case involving their interpretation has reached the jurisdiction's highest court.
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Ranking, Financing, Capital Markets, Mergers and Acquisitions, Dispute Resolution, Litigation and Arbitration, Oil and gas, Intellectual Property, Shipping Offshore
2021
Top ranked in Chambers Global 2021
We are happy to announce that it is once again confirmed by Chambers and Partners that Wikborg Rein is top ranked in Chambers Global 2021.
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2021
Admiralty Court delivers one of the first judgments relating to COVID-19 and its impact on shipping
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the shipping industry and led to many disputes. However, owing to the prevalence of arbitration in resolving shipping disputes, and the time taken for cases to progress through the courts, there have been few reported cases detailing the pandemic's impact on the industry.
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Sustainability, Ocean Industries, Technology and digitalisation, Renewable energy and infrastructure, Shipping Offshore
2020
Partner in the One Ocean Expedition
Wikborg Rein is proud to partner and fully support the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development in the project: The One Ocean Expedition.
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2020
Read our Shipping Offshore Update December 2020
In this Shipping Offshore Update we seek to address the legal developments relating to the shipping and offshore markets
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Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration
2020
Arbitrator bias and the duty of disclosure: Supreme Court adopts a pragmatic approach
When parties agree in a contract that any disputes arising from that contract will be referred to arbitration, they hope that any tribunal that will be appointed will be free of bias and approach the matter fairly. One of the long running debates, particularly in specialist fields where there has traditionally been a limited pool of arbitrators, is to what extent arbitrators need to disclose previous relationships with the parties to an arbitration or their lawyers.
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2020
Marine liquid hydrogen value chain– considerations
A complete liquid hydrogen value chain is currently in development on the west coast of Norway. What are the key issues affecting the development of such a large scale cooperation project?
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2020
“Full City” – 5 key takeaways from the limitation fund proceedings
In November 2020, the limitation fund established following the grounding of the “Full City” near Langesund, Norway, in 2009 was finally distributed. The limitation fund proceedings, which ran in parallel with the proceedings concerning the limitation fund established following the “Server” casualty in 2007, have helped clarify several procedural aspects of limitation funds.
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Shipping Offshore, Ocean Industries
2020
The London Dumping Regime – taking a lead in developing a legal framework for ocean fertilization activities
Contracting Parties to the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter 1972 (the London Convention) and the 1996 London Protocol have taken steps to address potential harm to the marine environment from the evaluation of new experimental technologies designed to reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
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Shipping Offshore, Fisheries and Aquaculture
2020
Offshore floating wind turbines and deepwater fish farms – different frameworks for success
The regulatory framework that exists within the shipping and offshore industries is long established. Whilst the existing framework effectively extends to also encompass the offshore floating wind sector in Norway, the same cannot be said for deepwater fish farms.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2020
“Fisktrans” – withdrawal of wreck removal order following consideration of proportionality
In a recent administrative appeal decision, the Norwegian Coastal Administration (the “NCA”) Head Office reversed the wreck removal order issued by the NCA Emergency Response Centre in respect of the “Fisktrans” which sank in Northern Norway in 2017. The decision confirms that the pollution authorities shall consider the proportionality of the measures ordered when exercising their administrative discretion.
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2020
BIMCO: SHIPLEASE
September 2020 has seen the recent publication of the new “SHIPLEASE” indicative term sheet by the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO). SHIPLEASE has been drafted to provide the first set of standard terms and conditions for sale and leaseback transactions of second-hand vessels.
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Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration
2020
International enforcement of arbitral awards
The New York Convention allows for recognition and enforcement of international arbitral awards in most states. In this article, we outline the main steps of the process of enforcing international arbitral awards, adding our practical insight on the peculiarities of specific jurisdictions
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Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration
2020
Imposing conditions to contractual consent – is it reasonable?
In the recent decision in Apache North Sea Ltd v INEOS FPS Ltd [2020] EWHC 2081 (Comm), the Commercial Court has provided guidance on the interpretation of consent provisions in a contract where such consent is not to be “unreasonably withheld”.
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2020
Navigating floating LNG projects – hints and tips for owners
In this article, we explore some of the key issues facing vessel owners when bidding for and negotiating floating LNG projects, whether for FLNG units (floating liquefaction) or FSRUs (floating storage and regasification)
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Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration
2020
When is the law applying to an arbitration agreement not the same as the law applying to the contract?
In Enka Insaat Ve Sanayi AS v OOO Insurance Company Chubb [2020] UKSC 38 the UK Supreme Court has (by a 3:2 majority) recently clarified that, in the absence of an express choice of law, the law governing the validity and scope of the arbitration agreement is that of the seat of the arbitration and not the law applicable to the contract.
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Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration, Oil and gas
2020
ICC launches revised Rules for Arbitration: Considerations for commercial parties in the offshore sector
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, conducting arbitration proceedings in 2020 has been challenging for many parties. As a result, several institutions have recognised the need for further developments in procedure and thus this year has resulted in numerous revisions to rules; including the most recent updates of the ICC Arbitration Rules (the "Rules").
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response, Ocean Industries, Environmental Law
2020
Maritime casualties in the High North
As noted in the white paper on Norway's Arctic policy (the High North Report), maritime activities in the High North are expected to increase as a result of improved accessibility resulting from melting sea-ice, the high potential for increased commercial exploitation of marine and offshore resources, and successful marketing of the Arctic as a tourist destination. With increased activities comes an increased risk of accidents.
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Shipping Offshore, Environmental law, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2020
The High North Report – an "ocean of opportunities"?
On 27 November 2020 the Norwegian government presented a white paper on the High North with the title "People, opportunities and Norwegian interests in the Arctic" (the "High North Report"). The report is the first white paper on the Northern region in nine years, and sets out the government's policy on foreign relations, climate change and environmental concerns, community development, business, infrastructure, transport and safety.
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Shipping Offshore, Environmental law, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2020
Beefing up emission and fuel standards in the Arctic
It has been a long time coming, and on 20 November 2020 the 75th session of the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 75) approved a "ban" on the use and carriage of so-called heavy fuel oil ("HFO") in the Arctic. The new regulation makes amendments to the Polar Code, as implemented in MARPOL. It is expected that the proposed amendments will be formally adopted at the next MEPC session in June 2021. However, more stringent standards have already been proposed by the Norwegian government for the area surrounding Svalbard.
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Shipping Offshore, Environmental law, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2020
Norwegian ocean management – modern or still very traditional?
With Jens Evensen in the forefront, Norway was a pioneer in the development of the law of the sea in the 70s. However, the traditional law of the sea as we know it, with its zonal and sectoral approach, is not sustainable. Through the High North Report, the Norwegian government is laying the foundations for what will be Norwegian foreign policy for the next 10 years. Is Norway once again capable of being a pioneer in the development of a modern law of the sea?
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Shipping Offshore, Technology and IT Law, Renewable energy, Sustainability
2020
Main Blue Economy Partner
Wikborg Rein has recently entered into a partnership as a Blue Economy Main Partner at Nor-Shipping together with Gard. Norwegian Energy Partners (NORWEP) and Telenor Maritime are joining as Partners. The biannual conference will take place from 1 to 4 June 2021.
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2020
Wikborg Rein supports the Sailors' Society
There are 1.6 million seafarers around the world and due to COVID-19, 2020 has been a particularly difficult year for them all. Wikborg Rein feel very proud to support the Sailors' Society in their work to help all seafarers.
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Shipping Offshore, Sustainability, Ocean Industries
2020
Green investments in ocean industries
The intersection between green investments and ocean industries continue to attract increased attention from investors, financiers and companies in search of new business opportunities.
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2020
Shipping Offshore webinar series
We are delighted to invite you to the first webinar in our Shipping Offshore webinar series. Throughout the next months, we will be holding live webinars from Oslo, Bergen/Stavanger, London and Shanghai/Singapore covering current topics related to the shipping and offshore industries.
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2020
Environmental protests against rigs in Norwegian waters
Rig owners and operators will be all too familiar with environmental protests against rigs where climate activists attempt to disrupt drilling activities. With increased global attention on the environment and global warming, the frequency of such protests would appear to be increasing.
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2020
Electrification projects on the Norwegian continental shelf – legal challenges and opportunities
Electrification of the Norwegian continental shelf (“NCS”) will significantly reduce Norway’s carbon emissions, and we expect to see a future increase in investments in electrification projects in the coming years. However, important clarifications from the Norwegian authorities are required in order to establish more predictability for such high value offshore grid investments
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2020
A hard-fought victory for the rule of law
The multi-billion dollar Gazprom-Naftogaz settlement shows how persistent resort to legal means can defeat apparently superior opponent.
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2020
When are e-mails to your team and your in-house lawyers disclosable?
In The Civil Aviation Authority v R (Jet2.Com Ltd, [2020] EWCA Civ 35), the Court of Appeal in London has recently given judgment on a dispute about disclosure of some of Civil Aviation Authority’s (“CAA’s”) internal documents and e-mails which CAA claimed were privileged due to the inclusion of their in-house lawyers as addressees. The judgment covered many points, but of particular interest was its finding on how legal advice privilege applies to multi-addressee emails.
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2020
Arbitration in Norway – benefits of NOMA vs. ad hoc arbitration
Arbitration is the most commonly used dispute resolution mechanism in shipping and offshore contracts. Very often however, parties tend to spend little or no effort reflecting on the type of arbitration solution chosen, i.e. ad hoc vs. institutional arbitration. In this article, we will highlight the benefits of agreeing to arbitration under the rules of NOMA – the Nordic Offshore and Maritime Arbitration Association vs. ad hoc arbitration.
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2020
Shipyards’ right of retention for non-payment
Under the Norwegian Maritime Code, a shipyard which constructs or repairs a ship may retain physical possession of that ship until it has been paid by the relevant shipowner for works done. This retention right creates a security or lien over the vessel which has priority over secured creditors, and may therefore be of great value to a shipyard in incentivising owners to pay.
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2020
Bareboat registration in Norway – a new initiative to retain Norway’s position as a leading maritime nation
To meet the existing and future needs of the maritime industry in Norway, the Norwegian ship registers (NIS and NOR) have finally decided to permit bareboat registration in and out of the Norwegian flag.
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2020
Limitation of liability – the English courts consider the meaning of the terms “operator” and “manager”
The Stema Barge II [2020] EWHC 1294 This judgment, handed down in the Admiralty Court on 22 May 2020, looks in detail at the scope and meaning of the 1976 Limitation Convention, in particular the meaning of the phrase “the operator of the ship” in Article 1(2). In determining the meaning of “operator”, it was necessary for the court to also examine the meaning of “manager”. This is the first time that the English courts have been called upon to consider this issue.
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2020
Passage plans – fail to prepare, prepare to fail
The CMA CGM Libra [2020] EWCA Civ 293 (Alize 1954 and CMA CGM SA v Allianz Elementar Versicherungs AG and 16 Ors) The Court of Appeal of England & Wales has recently endorsed the first-instance Admiralty Court decision that a failure to properly prepare a passage plan or to properly mark-up navigational charts to reflect navigational dangers, may amount to a failure to exercise due diligence to make the vessel seaworthy, leading to an actionable fault defence for cargo interests who had refused to contribute to general average.
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2020
Should public authorities be entitled to higher interest when claiming clean-up costs under the Pollution Control Act?
What happens if a vessel has an accident involving oil spill and public authorities clean up, but wait almost three years before claiming the clean-up costs from the shipowner? Can the public authorities claim interest, and if so, from when and at what rate?
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2020
Norwegian Supreme Court clarifies time bar rules applicable to direct actions against P&I insurers
In its decision in the “Mineral Libin” (HR-2020-257-A) the Norwegian Supreme Court provides clarification on the mandatory scope of the Insurance Contract Act and the application of the general Norwegian Time Bar Act in direct actions against P&I insurers under Norwegian law.
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2020
SUPPLYTIME – new special tasks annexes
For decades, SUPPLYTIME has been the industry standard time charter for offshore support vessels. However, in recognition of its broader usage within the offshore and renewables sector as a whole, BIMCO has recently published four new annexes for special tasks that can be incorporated into this popular standard contract.
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COVID-19, Shipping Offshore, Litigation and Arbitration
2020
The effects of Covid-19 on scheduled court and arbitration hearings in England
The effects of the current outbreak of Covid-19 on ongoing court and arbitration proceedings have been profound ranging from general court closures, adjournment of cases and potential increases to costs (as well as some potential savings) and a corresponding rise in remote hearings. The following article sets out basic guidance regarding the conduct of a remote hearing, addresses frequently asked questions and also reviews the potential costs consequences.
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2020
Notification is the key: The prevention principle, delay and extensions of time under shipbuilding contracts
The decision in Jiangsu provides an in-depth analysis of how, if at all, the prevention principle applies to shipbuilding contracts and the importance of good contract management to notify and seek extensions for events of delay.
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2020
Navigating the liquidity squeeze
The COVID-19 virus and its countermeasures, the plunge in the oil price and extreme currency fluctuations are adding to the pain of a prolonged downturn in several shipping / offshore segments with imminent risk of liquidity loss. Decisive response is thus crucial to preserve value for the stakeholders involved.
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2020
The COVID–19 virus: Legal challenges for the shipping and offshore industry
The fast spreading of the COVID-19 virus world-wide and actions by regulatory bodies create challenges for all industries, and particularly the shipping and offshore industry, being of international character.
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2020
Wikborg Rein Singapore advises AG&P on long-term FSU charter from ADNOC for new Karaikal LNG terminal
We have advised global downstream gas and LNG logistics company, AG&P, on its long-term charter from the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (ADNOC) of a Floating Storage Unit (FSU) for AG&P’s new LNG import terminal located within Karaikal Port in Puducherry, India.
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2020
The impact of coronavirus on global trade and contracts
Headlines across the world are currently dominated by news of a new strain of coronavirus originating from the city of Wuhan, China. The virus is spreading rapidly, and has already resulted in numerous deaths.
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2020
Wikborg Rein London advises BW on El Salvador's first LNG-to-power project
Wikborg Rein advised long-standing client BW Gas Ltd (BW LNG) in respect of its provision of a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) as part of the first integrated Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-to-Power project at the Port of Acajutla in the Department of Sonsonate in El Salvador, led by Invenergy and its project subsidiary Energía del Pacífico (EDP).
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2020
Awilco LNG Sale and Leaseback
Wikborg Rein acts for Awilco LNG on US$350m Sale and Leaseback transaction of two LNG Carriers
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2019
Andreas Fjærvoll-Larsen: New Partner in Oslo
With comprehensive experience from international shipping/offshore transactions and an extensive international network, Andreas Fjærvoll-Larsen is ready to take on the role as Partner in Wikborg Rein from 1 January 2020.
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Shipping Offshore, Renewable energy
2019
Public consultation on offshore wind power in Norway
In July 2019, the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy (the “Ministry”) presented a proposal to open up certain areas offshore Norway for the development and construction of offshore wind farms. In this article we will provide an overview of certain characteristics of those areas as well as the proposed new regulations related to offshore renewable energy production.
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2019
How many attacks does it take to make the Strait of Hormuz unsafe?
Since May 2019, there have been six oil tankers attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, four on 12 May 2019 and two on 13 June 2019, all allegedly with limpet mines or drones/missiles. Despite these attacks, vessels are however still taking orders to sail through the Strait albeit at higher war risk insurance rates and no doubt heightened crew concerns. Whilst the occurrence of such attacks might lead to war risk clauses in the governing charterparties being invoked and the war risk insurers applying their own approach to the situation, at what point, under English law, can owners refuse such voyage orders on the basis that the Strait is contractually unsafe?
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2019
Shipping project finance – new regulatory intricacies
Project financing has historically been a popular investment scheme and source of capital in Norway for shipping projects. The Norwegian regulatory authorities have however recently published guidelines regarding the application of the alternative investment fund regime on project finance entities and it is important that issuers, advisors, arrangers and investors are aware of the pitfalls of being captured by the wide definition of an alternative investment fund, and what steps they can take in order to adapt to the regulations.
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Shipping Offshore, Capital Markets
2019
Teekay shuttle tankers issues the first Nordic maritime green bond
In early October 2019 Teekay Shuttle Tankers LLC (“Teekay”) successfully placed its USD 125 million inaugural green bond, the first green bond to be issued in the Nordic markets by the maritime industries.
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2019
Shipbuilding – the consequences of disruption by buyers
In the lead-up to delivery under shipbuilding and offshore fabrication contracts where delivery is delayed, buyers may, from time to time, face claims that they have disrupted the contractor’s progress in such a way that the contractor is entitled to an extension of the delivery date and/or damages for the additional costs incurred. A recent ruling from the Norwegian Supreme Court involving land-based construction clarifies the requirements as to causation for such a claim to succeed.
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2019
Contractual options for stranded assets
The downturn in the offshore markets has clearly been deeper and more longer lasting than had originally been expected following the collapse of the oil price back in 2014. This article takes a brief look at the current situation and at some of the contracting solutions that we are seeing in these markets.
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2019
Shipbuilding from A to Z
Øystein Meland has worked with shipbuilding related matters on behalf of Wikborg Rein for more than 30 years, acting for both Norwegian and international clients. Capitalising on this experience, Meland launched the latest edition of his book “Shipbuilding Contracts – A commentary based on SHIP 2000” on 30 October 2019.
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2019
Norwegian Court of Appeal strikes another blow against forum shopping in direct action case
In a recent decision, the Court of Appeal held that Norwegian courts do not have jurisdiction under the Lugano Convention in a direct action concerning a ship collision in the Singapore Strait. The decision follows the Supreme Court's decision last year which set aside the Court of Appeal's previous decision which had found that there was jurisdiction.
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2019
Poseidon Principles – Global framework for responsible ship finance
Major international shipping banks have recently launched a collaboration for integration of climate considerations into their lending decisions. The "Poseidon Principles" establish a common, global baseline to quantitatively assess and disclose whether financial institutions’ lending portfolios are in line with adopted climate goals.
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2019
The UK Supreme Court’s decision in the “Renos” on CTL and the position under the Nordic Plan
The UK Supreme Court’s recent decision in the “Renos” (Sveriges Angfartygs Assurans Forening (The Swedish Club) and others v Connect Shipping Inc and another, [2019] UKSC 29) will be a landmark case on marine insurance under the English Institute Time Clauses Hulls (1/10/83) ("ITCH") conditions. It clarifies that when determining whether a vessel is a constructive total loss (“CTL”) under the ITCH conditions, regard should be had to (a) the costs incurred prior to the owners’ notice of abandonment, but not (b) remuneration payable under the SCOPIC clause. The decision will have significant importance in the insurance market because of the financial and practical implications. But what would be the position under the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013 version 2019 (“Nordic Plan”)?
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2019
Shipbuilding Portal – digital building contracts
The Shipbuilding Portal is a user-friendly online solution for the drafting of shipbuilding contacts based on the Standard Form Norwegian Shipbuilding Contract 2000, often referred to as "Ship 2000". It simplifies the drafting process and provides access to relevant practical information.
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2019
Shipbuilding Portal – digital building contracts
Wikborg Rein is launching a new digital service aimed at the shipping industry. The Shipbuilding Portal is a user-friendly online solution for the drafting of shipbuilding contacts based on the Standard Form Norwegian Shipbuilding Contract 2000, often referred to as "Ship 2000". It will simplify the drafting process and provide access to relevant practical information.
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2019
Quiet enjoyment letters – benefit to lenders?
Quiet enjoyment letters ("QEL"s) are often used where a ship, rig or other unit being financed is subject to a long-term charterparty to govern the inter-relationship between the owner, its financiers and the charterer. But what is a QEL and do they have any benefit for the lenders?
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2019
Finance and operating leases in the Chinese market – key differences
Chinese sale and leaseback deals are now a well established financing option in the shipping sector. Whilst Chinese leasing companies have traditionally opted to go down the finance lease route, they are increasingly assuming more risk and opting for either a full operating lease arrangement or a hybrid structure adopting elements of both finance and operating leases.
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2019
Worldwide freezing orders upheld in multi-national shipping fraud case
In a recent decision by the English High Court (Manchester Shipping Ltd v Balfour Worldwide Ltd & Anor [2019] EWHC 194 (Comm).) two worldwide freezing orders in a multi-national shipping fraud case were upheld, rejecting the defendant's allegations of breaches of full and frank disclosure and provided useful confirmation of the standing of an intermediary charterer to claim for the full value of the hire.
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2019
Court underlines charterers’ obligation to maintain class under bareboat charter
A recent decision of the High Court in London means that shipowners will have a decisive right in remedy against bareboat charterers who fail to maintain the class status of a vessel. It will also serve as a reminder to charterers of the importance of documentary obligations under such charters.
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2019
Insolvency in China – how to minimise risk when a customer is facing bankruptcy
Ever since China strengthened its legal framework for bankruptcy proceedings in 2007, the number of Chinese bankruptcies has increased significantly. For the seller in a supply contract, protection against bankruptcies should be considered when drafting the contract and suitable protections built in, to the extent possible.
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2019
Improving arbitration in Norway
There are a number of ways to make arbitration more attractive and efficient and the inherent flexibility of arbitration provides practitioners with the necessary tools to achieve just this aim without resorting to the development and adoption of further written "guidelines" or "best practices".
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2019
Oslo – an efficient market for capital raisings
The Norwegian capital markets offers a flexible, time- and cost efficient process for equity issues (private placements). A key consideration for investors is, however, tradeable securities. The N-OTC can offer instant low threshold listings of shares with a minimum of reporting requirements.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2019
Norway prepares for ratification of the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention
The Norwegian Parliament has recently decided that Norway shall ratify the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention and that the Convention shall be given effect not only in Norway's exclusive economic zone, but also in its territorial waters. The Norwegian Parliament has also adopted legislation to implement the Wreck Removal Convention into Norwegian law once ratified.
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2019
The bunker balance – owners consider LNG in advance of 2020
Using LNG rather than fuel oil is one of a range of options available to owners seeking to comply with IMO 2020. Given that shipbrokers have long predicted the emergence of a two-tier shipping market with 'greener' ships commanding a premium over older less eco-friendly vessels, what then is the future for LNG bunkering and what challenges does it present?
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2019
Readiness for the global sulphur cap - BIMCO's new IMO 2020 clauses
Most of those involved in the shipping industry will by now have a clear picture of the requirements under the IMO 2020 global sulphur cap on marine fuels. Attention has therefore turned to the steps that need to be taken to put those requirements into practice. Two clauses recently introduced by BIMCO are aimed at addressing certain contractual aspects of the IMO 2020 requirements as they apply to time charterparties.
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2019
Autonomous ships in unchartered waters
Unmanned ships are sailing onto the horizon and the Norwegian maritime cluster is uniquely positioned to take a leading role internationally in the development and commercialisation of this new technology. But is the legal framework keeping pace?
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2019
Charter terminated for want of class
This decision will provide comfort for Owners, and serve as a reminder to Charterers of the importance of documentary obligations within a bareboat charter.
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2018
New version of Nordic Marine Insurance Plan braces for Brexit – bolstering Nordic arbitration
The 2019 version of the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013 (the ‘’Plan’’) has been approved by the Plan’s Standing Revision Committee and will formally enter into force on 1 January 2019. The revisions include a clearer borderline between war and marine risks, an automatic reinstatement clause for loss of hire and several other amendments. It also introduces an arbitration clause.
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2018
Nordic Offshore and Maritime Arbitration
NOMA – the Nordic Offshore and Maritime Arbitration Association – was launched earlier this year with the aim at providing high-quality, cost-effective and quick dispute resolution as an alternative to the ordinary courts, ad hoc arbitrations as well as London arbitration.
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2018
Legal digital innovation: The future is here
One of the benefits of the digital innovation revolution is the potential to implement solutions that eliminate labour intensive tasks e.g. large volumes of documents in due diligence or disclosure exercises can now increasingly be analysed and categorized far more efficiently by AI-driven systems. The new eDiscovery system is one of these solutions, and has recently been used by Wikborg Rein in a number of cases.
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2018
Guidance on drafting and interpreting contractual sanctions clauses
In this article, we discuss the first UK case dealing with the scope of a sanctions exclusion clause in the context of the re-imposed US sanctions on Iran and the EU Blocking Regulation. We also provide some pointers for in-house counsel drafting sanctions exclusion clauses.
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2018
When are the owners obliged to commence the approach voyage to the loading port?
CSSA Chartering and Shipping Services SA v Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd [2018] EWCA Civ 2413 (The Pacific Voyager) In this important decision the Court of Appeal (England and Wales) held that where a voyage charterparty contains no provision as to the vessel's expected time of arrival or readiness to load in the loading port, the inclusion of the expected time of arrival at the last discharge port under the previous charterparty provides the basis for an absolute obligation on the owners to commence the approach voyage to the loading port.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
Norwegian Supreme Court clarifies distribution of interest component in global limitation fund
In a recent judgment in the “Full City” limitation fund proceedings, the Norwegian Supreme Court clarified how a global limitation fund established pursuant to the Norwegian Maritime Code is to be distributed. The Supreme Court held that the interest component in the limitation fund should only be distributed on the claims for interest and not on the other claims filed in the fund because the owners’ limitation of liability should remain the same regardless of whether a limitation fund is established or not.
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2018
Unit limitation for bulk and liquid cargoes
A recent Court of Appeal decision confirms that Article IV(5) of Hague Rules does not apply to bulk and liquid cargoes
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
Ship and rig recycling
International conventions and local regulations combine to create a complex regime, which is often overlooked. The sale of a ship or rig to an intermediate buyer, who then sells the asset on to a shipbreaking facility, will not necessarily insulate the original owner from future liability or reputational damage.
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2018
Legal digital innovation: The future is here
For Wikborg Rein, digital innovation means implementing solutions that eliminates labour intensive tasks to the clients benefit. Multiple documents can be analysed and categorized far more efficiently by AI-driven systems.
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2018
Wikborg Rein appoints two new partners in London
We have appointed two new partners to our Shipping, Trade, Energy & Infrastructure team in London.
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2018
Who’s liable anyway? – Allocation of liability in Maritime Environmental Law
Regulation of environmental liability in a maritime context first received international attention in the aftermath of the Torrey Canyon and Exxon Valdez incidents.
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Shipping Offshore, Ship and rig recycling
2018
Recycling – where ships go to die
A ship’s life cycle ends with it being dismantled and recycled. Up to 95 % of a ship’s weight is made up of steel, which can be sold and reused. A modern recycling process, which also includes the recycling of other materials, can be very efficient and is a positive step towards a greener shipping industry.
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2018
Retrofits – the approach to innovative technology and new equipment
A ship’s life cycle ends with it being dismantled and recycled. Up to 95 % of a ship’s weight is made up of steel, which can be sold and reused. A modern recycling process, which also includes the recycling of other materials, can be very efficient and is a positive step towards a greener shipping industry.
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2018
Support schemes for green and sustainable shipping in Norway
The Norwegian government has on several occasions reiterated how green solutions within shipping and the maritime industry are of high importance and its ambition that Norway should be front-runner in developments of green technology and low-emission solutions.
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2018
Green funding for shipping in the Norwegian Capital Markets
The Norwegian capital markets have been and continue to be attractive and a widely used sources of equity and debt funding for shipping and offshore companies from around the globe.
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2018
Ballast water – managing risks of zoological pollution
Zoological pollution is becoming an increasing concern for commercial shipping worldwide. The threat of invasive species spreading through the intake and discharge of ballast water has resulted in the IMO adopting the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments in force as of 8th of September 2017 (the “Convention”).
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2018
New emission regulations in shipping
The push for the international shipping industry to reduce its role in global air emissions has resulted in new environmental rules and regulation being introduced at an accelerated pace.
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2018
Who bears the risk of concurrent delay?
The English Court of Appeal has now spoken.
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2018
ESA has closed its assessment of the Norwegian International Ship Register
In 2014, ESA commenced an audit of the Norwegian International Ship Register. Subsequently, the EFTA Surveillance Authority (the “ESA”) opened a case against Norway for a possible breach of the EEA Agreement. The case concerned a geographical trade limitation applicable to ships flying the flag of the Norwegian International Ship Register.
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2018
Chinese financial leasing – an increasingly viable alternative to bank debt for a capital intensive industry
Shipowners require vast amounts of liquidity in order to fund the CAPEX costs of acquiring new and second-hand tonnage as well as to fund their operations on a day to day basis and Chinese lease finance offers an increasingly viable alternative to the more traditional bank finance that shipowners have traditionally relied on.
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2018
The Inter-Club Agreement – A "NO FAULT" REGIME?
In Transgrain Shipping (Singapore) Pte Ltd v Yangtze Navigation (Hong Kong) Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 2107 the Court of Appeal recently provided important clarification in relation to the apportionment of liability for cargo claims as between shipowners and charterers under the Inter-Club Agreement ("the ICA").
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
"Kvitnos" – when is a commercial agreement entered into for towage assistance to a distressed vessel?
A recent judgment from Agder Court of Appeal in Norway regarding remuneration for towage of the vessel “Kvitnos” underscores that in circumstances where commercial terms have been discussed a party wishing to claim a salvage award should expressly reserve their rights to do so.
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2018
New FIDIC Yellow Book
In December 2017, FIDIC launched the second editions of its Red, Yellow and Silver Books to reflect legal and practical developments since the first editions were issued in 1999. In this article we will look at the key changes introduced to the FIDIC Yellow Book, which is widely used in offshore projects.
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2018
Letters of indemnity for delivery of cargo without production of a bill of lading
In the SONGA WINDS [2018] EWHC 397, The High Court, London decides that LOIs requesting delivery without production of bills of lading to an intermediate trader of the cargo are still triggered even though delivery was to the trader's buyer.
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2018
High chairs and high stakes: Limitation of liability clauses in Norwegian law offshore contracts
Disputes are expensive, particularly those involving large construction projects where there may have been changes to the scope of work and cost overruns. Contractors therefore face a difficult choice when trying to close the final account, either negotiating a resolution on any terms available or funding litigation which they may not be able to afford.
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2018
US withdrawal from the Iran Nuclear Deal – what now for shipping and maritime trade with Iran?
On 8 May 2018, President Trump announced that he was withdrawing the US from the Iran Nuclear Deal, otherwise known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ("JCPOA"). The US sanctions regime is now likely to return to the state it was in before the JCPOA, with clear ramifications for shipping and maritime trade with Iran.
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2018
New Proposed Program for Offshore Drilling in the US
On January 4, 2018, the Trump administration unveiled a draft program for increased development of U.S. offshore oil and gas resources. The 2019-2024 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Draft Proposed Program (the "DPP") calls for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to offer leases for offshore acreage in 25 regions along America's coast. If instituted, the DPP would open up almost the entirety of the U.S. continental shelf to drilling (see map below):
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2018
BARECON 2017 – a broad brush revision of a widely used form
BIMCO has today, 13 December, released the new BARECON 2017 – a revision of its 16 year old predecessor BARECON 2001. This represents an important update to one of the most commonly used maritime contracts – regularly applied for all types of maritime assets across all sectors in the shipping and offshore industries.
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2018
Bareboat registration in and out of Norwegian Ship Registries
On 5 December 2017 the Norwegian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries issued a consultation paper with proposed changes to the legislation for registrations of vessels in the Norwegian International Ship Registry (NIS) and the Norwegian Ordinary Ship Registry (NOR). The two Norwegian Ship Registries does not currently allow bareboat registration of vessels, but the proposal suggests to open up for such registration both into and out of NIS and NOR. The proposal is intended to meet the practical needs of the maritime industry and make the rules for vessel registration in Norway more flexible and internationally competitive.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
Norwegian Supreme Court strikes a blow against forum shopping in direct action
In a landmark decision, the Norwegian Supreme Court has set aside a decision from the Court of Appeal which had concluded that Norwegian courts have jurisdiction under the Lugano Convention in a direct action concerning a ship collision in the Singapore Strait.
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2018
We assisted Songa Bulk in its combination with Star Bulk
Wikborg Rein assisted Songa Bulk ASA (OSE: SBULK) in its transaction to combine its fleet with Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (NASDAQ: SBLK) against consideration in shares of Star bulk and cash.
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2018
This is how Nina is sailing to the top in shipping
Nina M. Hanevold-Sandvik(35) originally wanted to follow in her father's footsteps and become a diplomat. But after studying admiralty during studies abroad, she chose a career in maritime law instead. At Wikborg Rein she works in the cross-section between shipping and law – two traditionally male-dominated industries, and last year she was listed as one of "10 Women to Watch" by YoungShip. In this article, Nina shares her best tips on how to succeed.
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2018
BAREBOAT CHARTERS – charterer’s maintenance and redelivery obligations
Difficult market conditions motivate cost savings wherever possible and this includes expenditure relating to the general maintenance of vessels. There has been an increase in disputes concerning the condition of vessels at the time of redelivery under a bareboat charter. Questions arise as to what is the charterers’ duty of maintenance under a bareboat charter and how can the parties best position themselves to avoid disputes?
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2018
Who bears the risk of concurrent delay?
A recent decision of the English Court has endorsed a decision by parties to “contract out” of responsibility for concurrent delay. This decision is important because, where parties agree to “contract out” of this responsibility, contractors may not be able to rely on the prevention principle as grounds for obtaining an extension of time for delay in construction contracts.
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2018
An overview of the health, safety and environmental regime in Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas sector
As a result of tightening up of the health, safety and environment (HSE) standards applicable to Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas sector, operating companies embarking on new projects in Nigerian waters need to carefully assess the risk and financial burden of these new requirements before committing themselves or their assets to these projects.
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2018
Third party funding of disputes
Disputes are expensive particularly when involve large construction projects where there have been changes to the scope of work and cost overruns. Contractors face a difficult choice when trying to close the final account of either negotiating a resolution on any terms available or funding litigation which they cannot afford.
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2018
Autonomous vessels and the digital future
With reports that the first fully automated cargo ship will be launched in 2018 and, after a period of manned operation, will begin operating fully autonomously by 2020, the unmanned future for vessels appears to be just over the horizon. The success of such a technological leap will depend on public perception being able to adapt and accept unmanned vessels. It will also require applicable laws and regulations to be rewritten.
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2018
Management of foreign owned ships in the NIS
In some transactions a non-Norwegian company may wish to register its ship in the Norwegian International Ship Register (“NIS”). This can only be done if the ship is managed by a shipping company who has its head office in Norway. This requirement has a bearing on the contractual structures and financing schemes that can be put in place and also raises issues concerning enforcement.
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2018
CARGO CONSIDERATIONS - owners’ lien on cargo
In another cargo-related development, the English High Court has confirmed when it will order the sale of liened cargo which is the subject of arbitration proceedings.
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2018
“Export financing” for non-export shipbuilding
In its recent National Budget Proposal for 2018, the Government has proposed a NOK 10 billion state loan and guarantee program for the construction of vessels at Norwegian shipyards intended for use in Norway.
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2018
A choice with consequences – progressive title transfer versus refund guarantees
Irrespective of how the construction of a vessel is financed, the yard and its financiers will require that the buyer prepays a percentage of the contract price prior to delivery. This prepayment may be lost to the buyer if proper security for that prepayment is not put in place. Provision of refund guarantees is the most common way this is achieved, but progressive title transfer may in some cases be an alternative method for securing the buyer’s position.
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2018
Update on Independent Guarantees under Chinese law
In China, independent guarantees are widely used. However, until recently there has been little or no guidance under Chinese law as to how these guarantees are to be interpreted.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
Jurisdiction clauses and choice of law in direct actions
In significant decisions by the European Court of Justice (ECJ C-368/16) and the Danish Supreme Court (dated 9 October 2017) in a direct action brought in Denmark against a marine liability insurer, the validity of jurisdiction clauses and choice of law in such actions has been considered.
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2018
The New Flamenco – the Supreme Court dances in a different direction
In the Court of Appeal ([2016] 1 LLR 383), time-charterers of the New Flamenco successfully overturned the High Court judgment against them, reinstating the arbitration award in their favour. The question was whether charterers liability for loss of profit should be extinguished by the profit that owners were able to make in selling the vessel earlier than would have been the case because of charterers’ repudiation.
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2018
Cargo considerations - Protection given by letters of indemnity
When delivering cargo in the absence of original bills of lading owners should take care to ensure that the terms of the Letter of Indemnity are drafted carefully.
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2017
Fit for purpose provisions in offshore wind construction and installation contracts
In the last couple of years two cases have been heard by the English Courts which consider the meaning and scope of fitness for purpose provisions in offshore wind construction and installation contracts. Although similar in some respects the cases differ both factually and legally but demonstrate the type of issues contractors can face in relation to offshore wind construction contracts and renewables projects more generally.
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2017
Innovation within marine renewables
Marine renewables is still a relatively young industry and provides a setting where innovative thinking and entrepreneurship can and does flourish.
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2017
BIMCO windtime
The installation and maintenance of offshore wind farms require personnel and equipment which has to be transported to and from offshore sites. Specialised vessels, typically small monohulls or catamaran vessels that carry up to 12 passengers, offer such services.
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2017
FIDIC – the potential pitfalls moving from onshore to offshore
There is no standard contract in use in offshore construction projects.
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2017
Contracting in the marine renewables industry
Contracts within the marine renewables industry often offer interesting opportunities for owners of offshore and installation vessels traditionally operating within the offshore oil and gas space.
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2017
NORWAY: Future hub for funding of green projects?
Norwegian financial institutions, investment banks and governmental funding institutions have played a significant role in the growth of the shipping and offshore industry, developing a tradition of close partnerships with Norwegian industrial entrepreneurs.
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2017
China: Opportunities in an emerging wind jurisdiction
China’s demand for electricity continues to grow voraciously and whilst China’s energy supply continues to be dominated by coal fired power stations, more recently the Chinese government has shown a stronger commitment towards using renewable sources of energy.
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2017
Policy framework for the offshore wind industry
The policy framework for the offshore wind industry has to a large extent been linked to available government support schemes. The industry is however evolving quickly and growing larger by the day and the level of subsidies is dropping. A current trend seen in all major markets is an ongoing shift from feed-in-tariff and certificate based systems, to more competitive auctions often involving Contracts for Difference (CFDs). The main reason for this shift is cost reductions made possible due to factors such as industry maturity, rapid technology advancement, economies of scale and political cycle.
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2018
Commercial Arbitration in Africa
Historically, most commercial arbitrations involving African parties have been resolved by non-African tribunals in places far from the African continent. As commercial disputes involving African parties have become more frequent, a new generation of arbitration institutes may result in an increase of arbitrations in Africa.
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2018
New realities for LNG carrier time charters
In keeping pace with the changing sentiment and nature of the LNG sector, the traditional long term LNG time charter market is evolving and charter periods are becoming shorter. This trend has a number of commercial, financial and legal implications which we consider in this article.
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2018
Risks of deliberately delaying discharge
A recent Commercial Court decision in Transgrain Shipping (Singapore) Pte Ltd -v- Yangtze Navigation (Hong Kong) Co Ltd [2016] EWHC 3132 (Comm), has held that a charterer is 100% responsible under the Inter-Club Agreement for damage to cargo arising from an order to the vessel to delay discharge until the receivers were able to pay for the cargo.
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2018
Getting ready for the recovery
It has been a brutal few years in the shipping and offshore markets with over-capacity, declining demand and the dramatic fall in the oil price, all contributing to historically low charter rates and plummeting asset values. It is no wonder that owners and operators in these markets have adopted defensive strategies in recent years.
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2018
Dismantling of offshore units
The number of offshore drilling and production units due to retire has grown substantially as a result of the reduction in drilling activity and the challenge of dismantling offshore units has become increasingly relevant for owners and operators. Cost, liability, selection of a recycling or scrapping yard, as well as corporate social responsibility, are just some of the considerations an owner needs to bear in mind when considering scrapping offshore units.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
Wreck removal in China
When a ship has reached the end of its life, the owners are inevitably faced with the decision of how to dispose of it in a manner that is both commercially viable and environmentally sustainable. The controversial practice of beaching vessels in low cost countries has spurred initiatives to tighten regulations on the recycling of ships. In the following pages we look at the current legal framework as well as what is to come.
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2018
Recycling of ships – what is the legal status?
When a ship has reached the end of its life, the owners are inevitably faced with the decision of how to dispose of it in a manner that is both commercially viable and environmentally sustainable. The controversial practice of beaching vessels in low cost countries has spurred initiatives to tighten regulations on the recycling of ships. In the following pages we look at the current legal framework as well as what is to come.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2018
“Server” – landmark judgment of the Supreme Court on wreck removal
The Norwegian Supreme Court has in a recent judgment in the “Server” case clarified a number of unsettled issues that will have an impact on other wreck removal cases, including whether the owners can use their right to limit liability as a defence against a wreck removal order. Wikborg Rein acts for the vessel’s owners, managers and P&I insurers.
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2016
When charterers fail to pay hire: owners’ dilemma finally resolved, but still be careful!
The downturn in the shipping and offshore sector has spurred a significant number of financial workout and insolvency proceedings over the last years. Wikborg Rein is involved in a significant number of the on-going restructurings within the OSV segment in Norway and also several international companies in the UK, US, Brazil, China and Mexico. The international nature of the shipping and offshore industry may complicate the financial workout when a company goes into distress, however, the global presence of a company may also present opportunities as the rules of statutory debt reorganisations vary.
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2016
Singapore Shipping and Offshore – Restructuring and Reflection
The downturn in the shipping and offshore sector has spurred a significant number of financial workout and insolvency proceedings over the last years. Wikborg Rein is involved in a significant number of the on-going restructurings within the OSV segment in Norway and also several international companies in the UK, US, Brazil, China and Mexico. The international nature of the shipping and offshore industry may complicate the financial workout when a company goes into distress, however, the global presence of a company may also present opportunities as the rules of statutory debt reorganisations vary.
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2016
Recognition of foreign insolvency proceedings in Norway
The downturn in the shipping and offshore sector has spurred a significant number of financial workout and insolvency proceedings over the last years. Wikborg Rein is involved in a significant number of the on-going restructurings within the OSV segment in Norway and also several international companies in the UK, US, Brazil, China and Mexico. The international nature of the shipping and offshore industry may complicate the financial workout when a company goes into distress, however, the global presence of a company may also present opportunities as the rules of statutory debt reorganisations vary.
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2016
Forum shopping when restructuring
The downturn in the shipping and offshore sector has spurred a significant number of financial workout and insolvency proceedings over the last years. Wikborg Rein is involved in a significant number of the on-going restructurings within the OSV segment in Norway and also several international companies in the UK, US, Brazil, China and Mexico. The international nature of the shipping and offshore industry may complicate the financial workout when a company goes into distress, however, the global presence of a company may also present opportunities as the rules of statutory debt reorganisations vary.
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2016
Norway considers ratification of the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention
Claims against or from third parties to an agreement containing an arbitration clause often give rise to the question of whether such third parties are bound by, or whether they can invoke, the arbitration clause.
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2016
Arbitration clauses and third parties
Claims against or from third parties to an agreement containing an arbitration clause often give rise to the question of whether such third parties are bound by, or whether they can invoke, the arbitration clause.
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2016
How not to start an arbitration
Two recent London decisions have highlighted problems that can be encountered in starting an arbitration.
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Shipping Offshore, Maritime and Offshore Emergency Response
2016
In the spotlight – public investigations in the Norwegian petroleum industry
The continued market downturn has led to a concern that cost cutting by the offshore industry may lead to a corresponding decline in safety standards. In response to this concern, the Norwegian Petroleum Safety Agency (the “PSA”) have announced that they will increase their audit and investigation activities to ensure that the very high standards of safety expected of companies operating in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea will continue to be adhered to.
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2018
Mediating complex disputes
Resolving disputes through litigation and arbitration comes at a high cost. Written submissions and preparations, sometimes over several years, lengthy hearings, expert witnesses and arbitrators’ fees, are just a few examples of the many contributors increasing the final bill. And in the end, many complex disputes will end up without any party being awarded costs – if the relevant jurisdiction has limited scope to make such an order. There is however an alternative with increasing popularity; mediation. How do you get the most out of mediation in a complex dispute?
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2016
International arbitration rules – differences matter
Commercial agreements require careful consideration of the proposed treatment of disputes before they arise. Both the forum for dispute resolution and the rules to be applied should be agreed as part of the contractual negotiation.
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2016
Laying up the lay up agreement
The first reported London arbitration decision in 2016 raises a number of interesting points in connection with lay up agreements and how much can be claimed for continuing to provide services after the original contract has been terminated.
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2016
THE NEW FLAMENCO – keeping in step with damages and mitigation
The Court of Appeal’s decision in The New Flamenco acknowledges the difficulties of laying down general principles of law in connection with an innocent party’s obligation to mitigate its loss following a repudiatory breach of contract. The case arose in the context of assessing damages for early redelivery where there was no available market at the time of the breach against which to measure the loss.
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2016
A penalty shoot out
One of the significant differences between civil and common law jurisdictions is that whereas the former generally see no objection to fixed sums being paid in the event of a breach that may not reflect a loss that is incurred, common law jurisdictions will strike down such clauses where they amount to a penalty rather an a genuine pre-estimate of a loss likely to flow from a breach.
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2016
NYPE 2015 – a major revision
On 15 October 2015, the Association of Ship Brokers and Agents, Baltic and International Maritime Council (“BIMCO”) and the Singapore Maritime Foundation jointly published a revised New York Produce Exchange (“NYPE”) 2015 form.
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2016
SUPERMAN – a new BIMCO contract is born
January 2016 saw the publication of the new SUPERMAN agreement published by BIMCO which governs the contractual relationship between third party ship managers and shipowners for the provision of technical supervisory services during construction, repair and conversion projects.
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2016
All change in the London insurance market
The insurance landscape in England is about to change fundamentally with the biggest shake-up for over a century. On 12 August 2016 the Insurance Act 2015 will come into force and will amend the Marine Insurance Act 1906 in areas such as warranties and disclosure. Furthermore, the Enterprise Act 2016 will come into force on 4 May 2017, and will, among other things, impose an obligation on insurers to pay claims promptly.
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2016
NORWAY – BRAZIL: maritime transport cooperation
The bilateral cooperation between Norway and Brazil is extensive within several industry sectors as well as in connection with matters relating to the environment and education. New areas of cooperation are constantly being developed and the most recent step forward is the signing of a memorandum of understanding on maritime transport.
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2016
PETROBRAS – the wounded giant seeks a way forward
Over a period of the last three years Petrobras, the Brazilian state-run oil company has reached both the unprecedented heights of success and some terrible blows. Corruption scandals, government interference in management and low oil prices have come together to form the perfect storm that has severely wounded the oil giant as well as the supply chain which both supports and depends on it.
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2016
IRANIAN SANCTIONS – a six month review
On 2 June 2016 the governments of the US, EU, UK, France and Germany issued a joint statement confirming that there are now extensive economic opportunities for companies and financial institutions to do business in Iran. The EU is actively exploring areas of cooperation with Iran, including the use of export credits to facilitate trade, project financing and investment.
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2016
Some relief for offshore contractors
There was some relief for offshore contractors when the Court of Appeal recently handed down its judgment on the construction of a consequential loss exclusion clause in a drilling contract on an amended LOGIC form between Transocean Drilling UK Limited and Providence Resources Plc.¹
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2016
OW Bunkers – the final say
On 11 May 2016, the Supreme Court handed down judgment in the long running OW Bunkers case. The decision is unlikely to be welcomed by owners who now face the prospect of having to pay twice for bunkers: once to their immediate supplier, who, as in the OW Bunkers case may be insolvent, and again to the physical supplier of the bunkers.
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2016
The ballast water convention
Having now achieved the required number of signatories, the new International Maritime Organisation (IMO) International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (the “Convention”) originally adopted in 2004 will enter into force on 8 September 2017. The Convention is expected to have a significant impact on ships engaged in international trade by requiring them to manage their ballast water and sediments to certain minimum standards, and eventually to install onboard ballast water management systems.
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2015
New opportunities in Iran following sanctions relief
Following the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed in Vienna on 14 July, Iran might be able to resume supplying oil to western markets. This will add even more pressure to an already depressed oil price, but perhaps also open up new opportunities.
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2015
The OW Bunker bankruptcy – bunker supply contract is not a contract for the sale of goods
The shipowners’ bid to avoid the risk of having to pay twice for bunkers supplied has been thwarted by the English High Court which held that a contract for the supply of bunkers is not a sale contract falling within the English Sale of Goods Act. (PST Energy 7 Shipping LLC v OW Bunker Malta Ltd [2015] (“Res Cogitans”) EWHC 2022 (Comm))
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2015
The Hague Convention on Choice of Court Agreements 2005
A global enforcement regime for judgments handed down under exclusive choice of court agreements
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2015
WELL BOAT CHARTERPARTIES – liability for cargo damage
As the Norwegian fish farming industry continues to grow, so does the demand for well boats. These sophisticated vessels transport fish, but also undertake complex tasks such as delousing and sorting fish. Damage to or loss of the fish handled by these vessels can result in substantial losses. Therefore, owners and charterers of well boats are advised to regulate the risks associated with such services in their charterparties.
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2015
LIENING CARGO – which lien clause applies to the bill of lading?
In a dry bulk market where some charterers are not paying freight or hire, their counterparties are often left to consider if they can lien the cargo on board the chartered vessel to obtain payment voluntarily, or by court sale if necessary.
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2015
NTK MOD 2015 – what is new and will it be used?
After three years of negotiations, the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association and the Federation of Norwegian Industries have agreed on a new revision to the Norwegian Total Contract for modification work. A primary objective has been to produce a standard which will be used more widely by the industry.
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2015
Inconsistent contractual provisions and erroneous industry standards – WHO IS TO BLAME?
A recent English case MT Højgaard A/S v E.ON Climate and Renewables UK ([2015] EWCA Civ 407) has highlighted the significant risk contractors can be exposed to when taking on complex offshore construction projects under contracts containing inconsistent provisions.
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2015
FORCE MAJEURE – a comparison of the English and the Norwegian approach
Force majeure refers to exceptional events which prevent or hinder the performance of an obligation. Generally, these are events beyond the parties’ control, which could not have been foreseen at the time the contract was entered into, and which could not have been prevented by the affected party. In this article we will look at force majeure clauses and the legal position under English and Norwegian law.
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2015
English Commercial Court remains a strong choice despite introduction of new fees
The cost of commencing proceedings in the English Commercial Court has recently increased. Despite of this, there are still real advantages of having the Commercial Court as forum for commercial disputes.
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