# IAPH/IHMA PCO Guide to be unveiled at IMO FAL 50
The International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) and the International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA) will jointly present a new Port Clearance Officer (PCO) Guide during the 50th session of the IMO Facilitation Committee (FAL 50), scheduled for 23-27 March. The presentation is scheduled as a special lunchtime event on Monday 23 March in the IMO’s Main Hall, offering delegates an early opportunity to review the guidance document.
The PCO Guide represents a collaborative effort to standardize practices and procedures for port clearance operations, a critical function in maritime administration. Port clearance officers are responsible for ensuring vessels comply with international regulations before entry and during port operations, making their guidance material essential for port state control and safe harbour operations. The FAL Committee, responsible for facilitating maritime traffic and reducing bureaucratic procedures, provides an ideal forum for introducing standardized protocols.
The timing of the unveiling at FAL 50 underscores the maritime industry’s ongoing efforts to streamline port procedures while maintaining safety and compliance standards. As global shipping volumes fluctuate and regulatory requirements evolve, harmonized PCO guidance can reduce delays and administrative burden for vessel operators and port authorities alike. The initiative reflects industry recognition that consistent clearance practices benefit all stakeholders in the maritime supply chain.