Fal convention 1965 and its import ance for enhancing maritinme trade in Pakistan

Abstract

The contemporary and all-encompassing provisions of the Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic 1965 (FALC) provide an exhaustive framework of standards, guidelines, and recommended practices that would be of instrumental benefit to a developing maritime economy like Pakistan. The purpose of this study is to provide an analysis of the legal provisions of the FALC while also highlighting the domestic maritime law of Pakistan with regard to ship and port juncture activities, in order to provide recommendations for modernising its current statutory rules and regulations in accordance with global guidelines and recommended practices under the Convention. To achieve its research objectives, the study has employed a qualitative approach through doctrinal and comparative research methods in order to review and analyse the relevant primary and secondary sources. The research has found that the FALC through harmonization and standardization of its port and shipping procedures has played a significant role in facilitating global maritime traffic and as per the provisions of the FALC and Facilitation Committee approved guidelines would increase Pakistan’s overall competitive standing as a regional port and shipping hub.