30 Dec 2025 / Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code Amendment becoming mandatory

AD Ports has issued a Marine Circular regarding The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code 2024 Edition (Amendment 42-24) which becomes mandatory for all maritime and other concerned parties on 1 January 2026.

The Amendment introduces several important changes affecting the handling and transport of dangerous goods, including:

a. Dangerous Goods List (DGL) Updates:
- Revised Proper Shipping Names, packing instructions, and special provisions.
- Introduction of new UN numbers, including sodium-ion batteries, updated vehicle classifications, and new fire suppressant devices.

b. Batteries (Lithium & Sodium - Ion):
- Strengthened requirements for packaging, marking, documentation, and safe handling.
- Updated provisions for damaged or defective batteries.

c. Packing & Container Requirements:
- Amendments to packing instructions (P - codes), IBC instructions, and tank requirements.
- New instruction P912 for vehicles with battery power.

d. Marking, Labelling & Documentation:
- Updated battery mark requirements applicable to both lithium and sodium-ion batteries.
- Adjusted marine pollutant requirements and new documentation obligations for exemption certificates.

e. Stowage & Segregation:
- Updated stowage categories and introduction of SW31 (stow away from ignition sources).
- Revised segregation rules for substances with subsidiary hazards.

3. Mandatory Requirements
- The following mandatory requirements apply to port users and other parties concerned:
- Obtain the IMDG Code 2024 Edition (Amendment 42 - 24) from official IMO sources.
- Review and update internal DG procedures, including acceptance, packing, marking, documentation, stowage, segregation, and cargo planning.
- Update dangerous goods training for staff involved in cargo handling, planning, and documentation.
- Ensure new provisions for lithium and sodium-ion batteries are fully implemented.
- Be fully compliant no later than 1 January 2026.
- Port users and other concerned parties shall ensure compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, 2024 Edition, incorporating Amendment 42 – 24.

4. Monitoring and Compliance
From 1 January 2026, AD Ports Group will monitor and enforce compliance with IMDG Code Amendment 42 - 24.

Non - compliance may result in cargo rejection, operational delays, and administrative actions in line with AD Ports Group rules and regulations.

For information about operations in Abu Dhabi, contact GAC Abu Dhabi at [email protected]

If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.

Make an
enquiry

enquiry icon

Find your
country

country icon