The ratification of MLC, which preserves the competitiveness of the International Shipping Register of Madeira - MAR at the level of social security and crew-related costs, is a very positive development for shipowners and it is the result of a long process of negotiations with the Portuguese Government.
From S.D.M.'s point of view, the ratification of this important Convention is a decision which clearly contributes for the development of MAR as one of the main ship registers in the European Union as well as for the creation in Portugal of a "maritime cluster", making it possible for the country to recover its historical tradition in the world of maritime transportation and to consolidate its presence at the I.M.O. and other international organizations.