CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SHIP AGENTS

issued by WWSA (World Wide Shipagencies Association) in July 2025.

This Code of Conduct for Ship Agents establishes the principles and standards expected of agents in the performance of their duties. It serves as a guideline to promote transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for international regulations and best practices. The goal is to foster a culture of ethical behavior and excellence, ensuring that all ship agency activities are carried out responsibly, safely, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
By adhering to this Code, ship agents demonstrate their commitment to upholding the reputation of the maritime industry, maintaining the confidence of clients and stakeholders, and contributing to smooth and sustainable port operations worldwide.

WWSA members should:
1. Comply with all national laws and regulations in every country where they operate.
2. Maintain unwavering commitment to honesty and integrity.
3. Ensure all financial activities are carried out ethically and responsibly.
4. Ensure all business dealings on behalf of the principal are conducted with the utmost confidentiality.
5. Collaborate with relevant authorities and actively support efforts to combat all forms of illegal activities, including maritime fraud and the trafficking of prohibited drugs.
6. Commit to offering all necessary assistance to the principal and the vessel's master in fulfilling, to the best of the agent's abilities and within their scope of responsibility, the vessel’s statutory obligations to the relevant national, regional, and international authorities in a timely and organized manner.

Professional competencies of staff

The professionalism and expertise of staff members are critical to the successful operation of ship agency services. To maintain high standards of service, all staff involved in ship agency operations must possess the necessary qualifications and experience.

WWSA members will:
1. Engage experienced and professionally qualified staff to oversee all aspects of the business, ensuring that the full range of ship agency functions are performed to the highest standards.
2. Motivate such personnel to enhance their professional qualifications by supporting them in preparing for and successfully completing examinations aligned with the curricula of reputable international maritime authorities or accredited educational institutions.

Professional Conduct

WWSA members will:
1. Guarantee that all operations are performed transparently and uphold the utmost levels of ethical and professional standards.
2. Through effective management oversight, establish and sustain a strong level of confidence that all responsibilities will be carried out with conscientiousness and due diligence.
3. Comply with all applicable national and international laws, as well as any local regulations relevant to the shipping industry.
4. Maintain a permanent place of business equipped with all necessary facilities and resources to ensure the efficient and timely conduct of operations.
5. Exercise utmost care to prevent any form of misrepresentation and ensure that all activities are conducted in accordance with the principles of honesty, transparency, and fair dealing.
6. Ensure that all transactions are conducted with proper authorization from the appropriate party, and that no actions are knowingly taken beyond the scope of that authority.
7. Ensure that under no circumstances shall a vessel or cargo be quoted without proper authorization from the principal.
8. Ensure that all business enquiries are bona fide by conducting all reasonable investigations prior to marketing them.

Corporate Responsibility

1. WWSA commit to conducting all business activities with the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and fairness, ensuring transparency and accountability in all dealings.
2. WWSA are dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact by adopting sustainable practices, conserving resources, and complying with environmental regulations.
3. WWSA uphold and respect the fundamental rights of all individuals, promoting a diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace free from discrimination and harassment.
4. WWSA prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of our employees, contractors, and the communities in which we operate.

Financial Stability

1. WWSA commit to managing all financial resources prudently, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and integrity in all financial reporting and transactions.
2. WWSA members must adhere to applicable financial laws, regulations, and internal policies to uphold the organization’s financial integrity.
3. WWSA promote clear accountability for financial decisions and maintain transparent communication with stakeholders regarding financial performance and risks.
4. All financial dealings must be conducted honestly, avoiding conflicts of interest, fraud, and any unethical practices.
5. Sensitive financial information must be handled with strict confidentiality and only shared with authorized personnel.

Discipline

WWSA members will:

1. Recommend to its members, provided there is no conflict with any official regulation, the desirability of accepting self-regulatory oversight by agreeing to comply with WWSA Code of Conduct.
2. Maintain established disciplinary procedures to investigate breaches of the Code and to implement appropriate measures against offenders.