International Trade by Sea

For vessels engaged in international trade by sea, the choice of flag is a crucial determination to make, a choice which will ultimately has a bearing on the manner in which the vessel’s activities are treated from a legal, as well as a financial aspect.

Positioned at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea and possessing a strong maritime tradition, Malta has, for a number of years, ranked as the largest register in Europe and one of the largest worldwide. Boasting an efficient tax system and having ratified all major maritime conventions, Malta has not only emerged as a flag of choice but also as a flag of confidence, upon which ship owners, ship operators and ship financiers have comfort in knowing that a sound legal framework, highly specialised experience and knowledge are offered by the Maltese islands.

Gonzi & Associates, Advocates is well versed in all the aspects concerning international trade by sea for shipowners, carriers, charterers and Malta based companies, both shipping based and purely commercial entities, seeking trade over sea. It has become popular to incorporate Maltese companies for the purposes of trade due to the fiscal benefits that arise under the Maltese jurisdiction and Malta’s ideal location as a strategic hub in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.

Our services include the drafting, negotiation and review of import and export arrangements and basic transport documents such as the bill of lading, letters of credit, the contract of carriage, contract of insurance and any other ancillary documents whilst interacting with the relevant parties such as financial institutions, carriers, insurance providers and banks on behalf of the client. In addition, our firm can handle any purchase or leasing arrangements for warehouses for storage if needed.

We ensure expert advice to clients who seek to harmonise their trade contracts and documentations with all applicable laws of both Maltese and International Maritime regulatory bodies which would prove invaluable in avoiding future disturbances when dealing with both foreign and local merchants and consumers. In addition, our firm has experience in both Court and Arbitration proceedings providing the necessary assurance and reliability that a client demands.