(e) International Maritime Organization audit scheme
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.61