06 Sep Interview with Claude Haylock, IMMARBE, Belize
Can you provide an overview of the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) in your own words, highlighting your recent accomplishments, facts and figures?
IMMARBE was previously managed by a private entity until the government took control in 2013. Over the past few years, we’ve focused on three key areas: cleaning up the register, growing the register and delivering our renowned fast and efficient service. We aim to respond promptly to our stakeholders and clients, who operate in various time zones, by being flexible and proactive.
Before 2013, our register had many substandard ships, but we have since implemented strict parameters, such as not accepting ships over 20 years old or beyond a certain size and we are now very specific about our target market. IMMARBE is currently in a transition phase and with the current leadership stepping down, we are seeking a professional in the sector to help us achieve our future goals. IMMARBE significantly contributes to Belize’s economy, not only through ship registry revenue but also by creating linkages with the real economy. Ship owners need services such as lawyers, accountants and companies. We’re dedicated to providing a comprehensive package for those choosing Belize as their flag.
Additionally, IMMARBE creates employment opportunities for Belizeans, developing skills for running a flag registry and placing young Belizeans as seafarers. Many IMMARBE staff started as deckhands and advanced to professional roles. As a maritime state, Belize must leverage its coastal advantage sustainably, aligning with the Ministry of Blue Economy and the Ministry of Transportation and Logistics. IMMARBE focuses on the external shipping business, separate from domestic operations.
What is the function of your overseas offices and how do they combine for you to offer your best services for clients across the globe?
Deputy registrars, appointed by IMMARBE, deliver our services and market the Belize flag’s advantages. While some matters must be referred to the head office, these registrars operate with a free hand, acting as our primary marketers. Having a network of deputy registrars in key shipping destinations is more cost-effective than establishing offices globally. They know the market and ship owners, making them better positioned to promote our flag.
How does one get on your list of recommended clients, what sort of requirements there are and standards and procedures to which one must adhere to be on the shortlist?
Appointing a deputy registrar or regional organization involves a thorough vetting process. Candidates must demonstrate extensive experience and relevant technical certifications. We evaluate their business plans and conduct detailed background checks to ensure integrity. We examine their history with other registers and the business they brought in. This rigorous process ensures our representatives are well-qualified, serving as our front line to maintain high standards. While the final approval of ships rests with the head office, deputy registrars conduct preliminary vetting to meet basic requirements.
As the shipping industry is under great pressure to decarbonize, what sort of environmental actions have you taken at IMMARBE to minimize your carbon footprint?
We ensure ship owners on our register are committed to our blue economy efforts. Our focus is on maintaining a fleet that meets greenhouse gas requirements without being overly restrictive, balancing environmental concerns with business viability. Our registry already accepts only newer ships, avoiding older, more polluting vessels. This proactive approach sets us ahead of other registries and aligns with our sustainability initiatives.
How can you contribute to Belize’s drive for investment through ease of ship registration, services and maintenance while ships are in port or other facilities that could attract U.S. investors to Belize?
We focus on ease of doing business, delivering quick, responsive and transparent services. We aim to register ships and provide necessary ownership structures within 24 hours. While Belize’s coastal infrastructure needs development, IMMARBE leverages its international network to support this growth. Our commitment is to nimbleness, proactivity and customer focus, ensuring a safe and clean register by excluding bad actors.
How would you assess Belize’s performance in other shipping areas such as cargo consolidation or freight forwarding compared to its neighbors and what trends does Belize have that can attract investors to the country?
First, we are English-speaking, which is crucial. Our legal system is based on common law, making it familiar to many. Although IMMARBE focuses on the international sector, we can bridge the gap between global maritime needs and Belize’s domestic infrastructure development, attracting potential investors. Belize offers strong air connections, strategic location and excellent relations with the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean through CARICOM, providing market access with minimal barriers. Visitors often miss Belize’s interior beauty, with 90% of its foliage intact and a healthy reef. Belize’s connections with Mexico, Guatemala and Central America offer rich cultural and geographical linkages.
Do you have any final thoughts or messages for the readers of Newsweek and why they should seek out Belize for their next business decision?
Come to Belize not just for regulatory benefits, but for our many advantages. We are English-speaking, friendly and open to investment. Belizeans welcome foreigners, making them feel at home. The government promotes a safe and attractive investment climate, treating domestic and foreign investors equally. Our focus is on growing an economy that offers great opportunities for all investors.
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