Aerial view of a fully laden container ship underway at sea, leaving a long white wake across dark blue water.

International Flag‑State Association

Bringing together the world's major flag States to advance shared standards and strengthen global cooperation

International Flag-State Association

The International Flag-State Association (IFA) unites the world's three largest ship registries—Liberia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Panama—in the first alliance of its kind.

Together, these flag States represent more than 40% of the world's gross tonnage. Through collaboration, IFA advances maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and seafarer welfare, while promoting practical, globally harmonized rules and regulations.

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Direct overhead view of a container ship docked at a terminal, with gantry cranes unloading colorful shipping containers beside deep blue water.

A Global Industry. A Coordinated Approach.

Shipping connects the world. Its regulatory framework must reflect that global reach. IFA supports a consistent international approach that provides clarity for the maritime industry and strengthens standards across borders.

  • Maritime safety
  • Maritime security
  • Environmental protection
  • Seafarers welfare
  • Globally harmonized regulation

News and Insights

Featured Statement

Maritime Coalition Representing Half the World's Fleet Calls for Consensus Ahead of MEPC 84

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