Strengthening Maritime Futures: Reflections on the IMO’s New Pacific Office
Technical Insight by Natasha Hallett, Senior Maritime Security Consultant, ABL New Zealand.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken a landmark step in strengthening maritime governance across the Pacific Islands with the launch of its first Regional Presence Office (RPO) in Suva, Fiji. This development is a major milestone for Pacific Islands marine consultants, maritime security consultants, and regional stakeholders committed to sustainable and secure maritime futures.
ABL New Zealand Welcomes the IMO’s Pacific Islands Initiative
As a leading maritime security consultancy, ABL New Zealand recognises the strategic importance of this new office. The RPO will serve as a regional hub for technical coordination, capacity building, and the implementation of international maritime standards – key areas where marine consultants and security experts play a vital role.
Why the IMO’s Pacific Office Matters
For Pacific Island nations, maritime transport is not just infrastructure; it’s a lifeline. It connects remote communities, supports economic development, and enhances resilience against climate change. The IMO’s presence in Fiji is a direct response to long-standing calls from Pacific leaders for tailored support in areas such as:
- Maritime safety and security
- Climate adaptation and decarbonisation
- Legislative reform and compliance
- Seafarer welfare and gender inclusion
Strengthening Maritime Security in the Pacific
The vast ocean spaces and dispersed populations of the Pacific present unique challenges for maritime security. Surveillance, enforcement, and emergency response require agile, community-embedded solutions. The new RPO offers a platform to support more pragmatic, targeted, and locally responsive solutions via closer collaboration between the IMO, Pacific Islands maritime industry stakeholders, marine consultants, and regional governments.
Aligning with the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework
The Suva-based office will also support local implementation of initiatives to facilitate the Pacific’s transition to cleaner, smarter shipping, in line with the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework and upcoming global GHG pricing mechanisms. This is a critical area where marine consultants can provide technical guidance and project support.
Looking Ahead: The Pacific One Maritime Framework
As the region prepares to endorse the Pacific One Maritime Framework in 2026, the RPO stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through regional solidarity and global cooperation. For IMO Pacific Islands stakeholders and IMO Fiji partners, this is a moment of transformation.
ABL: Supporting Maritime Security and Efficiency in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands
ABL New Zealand is a trusted provider of maritime security consultancy and marine consulting services across the South Pacific.
Our team of experts supports government authorities, port authorities, and private sector clients in building safer, more sustainable maritime systems.
Services in Maritime Security include:
- ISPS Code compliance and training
- ISM Code and SMS audits
- ISPO port compliance services
- Security risk assessments and emergency planning
- Custom consultancy for ports, shipyards, and maritime facilities
Ready to strengthen your maritime operations in New Zealand or the Pacific Islands? Reach out to Natasha Hallett for tailored consultancy support or explore our full global offering in maritime: