Mexico boosts capacity to combat biofouling, protect the ocean

Maritime stakeholders in Mexico have gained new skills in assessing and managing biofouling - the buildup of organisms like algae and barnacles on ships' hulls - using innovative technology to protect the marine environment and boost ship efficiency.

A workshop in Manzanillo, Mexico (27-29 August 2025), led by IMO in collaboration with the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre (MTCC) in the Caribbean, trained more than 60 officials, including representatives from government agencies, ports, the private sector, academia and civil society.

Participants gained practical knowledge on applying in-water inspection protocols, evaluate levels of hull fouling, and align national practices with the IMO Biofouling Guidelines. The sessions also explored financing options for sustainable ocean action, with the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) highlighting various funding mechanisms to support biofouling management and safeguard marine biodiversity.

The workshop culminated in a live demonstration at the Port of Manzanillo, where Fleet Robotics Services B.V. showcased an advanced in-water inspection using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). The demonstration was hosted on board the Mexican Navy Oceanographic Research Vessel, ARM Mazunte BI-08.

National action

As a result of the workshop, Mexico's Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR) will circulate the IMO Biofouling Guidelines to all National Port System Administrations (ASIPONAs).

Key national documents, such as the country's National Strategy on Biofouling and Action Plan, the Report on the Economic Evaluation of Biofouling Management; and the Initial Marine Biofouling Risk Assessment and In-water Inspection Methodologies, will be published in the Official Gazette of the Federation.

A new Working Group will be established under the National Advisory Committee on Standardization (under SEMAR) to draft an Official Mexican Standard for in-water hull cleaning, with stakeholders invited to contribute to the process.

IMO-Norad TEST Biofouling Project

The training in Manzanillo was the first in a series of national workshops planned by the IMO-Norad TEST Biofouling Project, which promotes the adoption of innovative and sustainable biofouling management practices in developing countries. Upcoming sessions are scheduled for Madagascar (15-17 September), Ecuador (1-3 October) and Fiji (22-24 October).

For more information, visit: https://testbiofouling.imo.org/