A. Introduction

44.001 It would help if the formalities for ships using European Union (“EU”) ports were streamlined, simplified and harmonised.1 Such a scenario would facilitate trade, harmonise procedures, increase predictability, reduce costs and hence improve compliance with law. It would also mean that a common minimum amount of information would be obtained by Member States and, in turn, the EU. The EU has therefore adopted a directive2 aimed at simplifying and harmonising the administrative procedures applicable to maritime transport. The directive establishes a regime for the standard electronic transmission of information and the rationalisation of reporting formalities for ships arriving in, and departing from, EU ports.3