| Country | Brazil |
| Port/s | All ports |
| Impact | Warning |
The Brazilian Navy has introduced regulatory changes under the revised NORMAM-401, effective June 2025. These updates establish mandatory requirements for hull fouling control applicable to all vessels over 24 metres LOA operating within Brazilian Jurisdictional Waters (AJB) or transiting between designated marine biogeographic zones (North, Northeast, and South).
Key Requirements
Required Documentation On Board
- A Biofouling Management Plan (BMP) – prepared in line with IMO guidelines (Annex H – NORMAM 401/DPC).
- A Biofouling Record Book – documenting all inspections, cleanings, and fouling assessments.
Both documents are subject to inspection by Brazilian Port Authorities.
Maximum Allowable Fouling
- Brazil adopts the IMO Biofouling Rating Scale.
- Only vessels with fouling level 1 (microfouling) may enter Brazilian waters.
- Vessels with level 2 or higher (macrofouling) must undergo cleaning prior to entry or inter-zone transit.
Cleaning Procedures
- In-water hull cleaning is permitted only with full capture of residues and prior authorisation from the Port Captain.
- Requests must be submitted at least 10 days in advance, using the official form (Annex K – NORMAM 401/DPC).
Enforcement
- Although the regulation is now in effect, fines and enforcement actions will commence on 1 February 2026.
- Under Brazilian environmental law (Decree 6.514/2008), non-compliance may incur fines ranging from BRL 500 to BRL 2,000,000, depending on severity and recurrence. Additional measures may include vessel detention or denial of port entry.