Novel Coronavirus Bulletin Highlights Implications For Charterparties

A bulletin has been issued on novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) by Shipowners Club.
It highlights the origins and prevention measures to be taken by vessels.
It considers two key clauses that may alter the rights and obligations of shipowners and charterers.
BIMCO has also issued an ‘Infectious or Contagious Disease’ clause into future charter parties.
Concerned parties may invoke ‘force majeure’ to relieve itself of its obligations where there is a clause in the contract.

The Shipowners Club has...