The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has indicated that Goundar Shipping Limited’s new vessel, the MV Captain Inoke, has not yet been surveyed and approved for registration. As it stands, the ship remains classified as a foreign vessel, having arrived in Fiji under a Mongolian flag early Friday morning. The vessel is scheduled to dock at Suva Port later in the day.
MSAF’s CEO, Joweli Cawaki, explained that the registration process is still pending. “As of now, the vessel is registered as foreign by the Board of Control, and we have yet to process its local registration,” he stated. Cawaki confirmed that MV Captain Inoke will not be operational until it is officially registered, which is anticipated to take place next week.
Goundar Shipping’s managing director, George Goundar, acknowledged the current foreign registration but emphasized that the vessel is owned by a Fiji-registered businessman. He mentioned that the ship was brought down under a different flag due to political issues in Korea, where the vessel was originally registered. Goundar also noted challenges faced when various departments initially refused to accept the ship upon its arrival.
Despite facing criticism from competing companies, Goundar expressed his commitment to serving the Fijian community and enhancing local maritime services. He asserted that he is determined to move forward with maintenance and upgrades on the vessel, which cost over $7 million, with another vessel expected to arrive in mid-2024 for an additional $3 million.
This situation illustrates the complexities involved in maritime regulations and the challenges faced by local businesses. It also highlights the determination of local entrepreneurs like Goundar, who aim to improve services while nurturing the local economy. There is optimism that the registration process will be completed promptly, allowing the MV Captain Inoke to contribute to Fiji’s transport sector and economic vitality.
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