Cameroon registry takes steps to avoid shadow fleet vessels
According to local news, Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute convened a high-level government meeting in early February to address the issue of vessels linked to the shadow fleet registering under the Cameroonian flag. The meeting focused on identifying and eliminating mechanisms that allowed sanctioned vessels to register under the Cameroonian flag.
The government announced plans to immediately suspend new registrations of vessels suspected of being part of the shadow fleet and to rapidly deregister those already listed. Officials also said additional measures may be introduced to reassure international partners. Cameroon‘s government has partly attributed the situation to fraudulent registrations carried out through unauthorized applications, though internal records show more than 200 vessels were officially registered by national authorities.
Government Action Underway
The Cameroonian government’s decision to take action against shadow fleet vessels comes amid mounting diplomatic pressure from the European Union and Ukraine. The issue has significant diplomatic and reputational implications for Cameroon. Ukraine sanctioned three Cameroonian-flagged vessels in December 2025, and European authorities have warned of closer scrutiny if Cameroon fails to enforce stricter controls.
The government’s decision is seen as a crucial step towards re-establishing trust with international partners. Cameroon‘s Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute emphasized the need for swift action, stating that the country will not tolerate fraudulent registrations that undermine its reputation on the global stage.
Shadow Fleet Origins and Impact
Throughout 2025, more than 300 shadow fleet tankers involved in sanctioned Iranian, Venezuelan, or Russian oil trades shifted to fraudulent flags, often after repeated flag hopping. This has significant implications for global energy markets and international trade. The shadow fleet’s activities have been linked to illegal oil trading, money laundering, and sanctions evasion.
The Cameroonian government’s decision to take action against the shadow fleet vessels is a critical step towards addressing these issues. By suspending new registrations and rapidly deregistering those already listed, Cameroon aims to demonstrate its commitment to transparency and compliance with international regulations.
Next Steps
As the Cameroonian government continues to implement measures to address the issue of shadow fleet vessels, it remains to be seen how effective these steps will be in re-establishing trust with international partners. The European Union and Ukraine have both emphasized the need for swift action, and Cameroon‘s Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute has pledged to take decisive action to address the situation.
The outcome of this situation will have significant implications for global energy markets and international trade. As the Cameroonian government continues to work towards addressing the issue of shadow fleet vessels, it is crucial that it prioritizes transparency, compliance with international regulations, and cooperation with international partners.
Original Article: Cameroon registry takes steps to avoid shadow fleet vessels — Safety4Sea