The MEPC adopted amendments to MARPOL
annexes I through to VI (IMO, 2014a, annexes 7 and
8), to make mandatory the use of the IMO Instruments
Implementation Code (III Code) (IMO, 2013k). The III
Code, adopted by the IMO Assembly on 4 December
2013, provides a global standard to enable States
to meet their obligations as flag, port and/or coastal
States.60 The amendments add definitions and
regulations relating to “verification of compliance”,
thereby making the IMO audit scheme mandatory
under MARPOL, and are expected to enter into force
on 1 January 2016. Similar amendments to other
IMO treaties have been or are in the process of being
adopted.