From 25 to 29 June an EMSA team and an experienced IMO lead auditor from the Danish Maritime Authority carried out a preparatory audit to Algeria in view of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). The objective was to support the maritime administration of Algeria to prepare for the IMO audit that will be executed in 2019.

The activity is envisioned in the framework of the project for technical assistance provided by EMSA to Mediterranean EU Neighbouring Partner countries, namely SAFEMED IV.

The preparatory audit was held at the premises of the Direction de la Marine Marchande et des Ports in Algiers. The auditing team also had to opportunity to visit the premises and interview staff from other entities playing a key role in the Flag, Port and Coastal State organisation of the Algerian Maritime Administration.

The good cooperation between auditors and auditees as well as the open approach to the preparatory audit by the Algerian authorities provided useful inputs in view of the forthcoming IMO audit.