The IWT Platform took part in the June 2026 meeting of the CESNI Working Group on Technical Requirements, where several dossiers of direct relevance to the inland waterway transport sector were discussed.
The meeting addressed important technical and regulatory questions, including long-term transitional provisions, hull strength inspections, the possible introduction of a new S3 standard, and the development of a methodology for measuring and classifying vessel emissions.
A key point of discussion concerned the long-term transitional provisions in ES-TRIN. These provisions are particularly relevant for a significant part of the existing fleet. The IWT Platform underlined the need for solutions that maintain safety, while remaining proportionate, technically feasible and economically realistic for shipowners. Timely clarity is essential, as operators and certification bodies need legal certainty to prepare for future requirements.
The working group also continued its discussion on hull strength and inspection requirements. The IWT Platform welcomed steps towards a more balanced approach and stressed the importance of keeping inspections risk-based, practical and aligned with the expertise of inspectors. Requirements should support safety without creating unnecessary administrative or operational burdens.
Another topic on the agenda was the possible development of a new S3 standard. This would explore how technical equipment on board could support future crew arrangements and help address workload and staff shortages. The Platform welcomed the initiative and highlighted the need for close coordination between technical requirements and professional qualification rules.
Finally, CESNI/PT discussed the future methodology for measuring and calculating emissions from inland navigation vessels, as well as the definition of emission classes. The IWT Platform emphasised that this dossier is not only technical, but also highly relevant for future policy and market instruments. In particular, the Platform supported further consideration of intermediate emission classes between Stage V and zero-emission, so that investments already made by the sector can be properly recognised.
Through its participation in CESNI/PT, the IWT Platform continues to bring the practical perspective of the sector into technical discussions, with the aim of ensuring that future rules are safe, workable and proportionate.
The full feedback note is available for download below in EN, NL, DE.
