Misdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods continue to pose a significant threat to global shipping, according to new data released in Allianz’s Safety & Shipping Review 2026.
The report reveals that a container ship fire now occurs every 17 days, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with incorrectly declared cargoes. Allianz identified misdeclared dangerous goods as a major contributing factor behind many of these incidents, which threaten crew safety, vessels, cargo and the wider marine environment.
“Misdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods are a known and preventable threat to seafarers, ships, cargo and the marine environment. This is not a paperwork issue. It is a life and death safety issue,” said Joe Kramek, President and CEO of the World Shipping Council (WSC).
While the majority of shippers comply with regulations, the industry body warned that a small number of operators continue to conceal hazardous cargoes, creating unnecessary risks throughout global supply chains.
To address the problem, the WSC has implemented its Cargo Safety Program, an artificial intelligence-based screening system designed to identify potentially dangerous shipments before loading. The programme has already prevented thousands of incidents by flagging suspicious cargo declarations.
In one example, a shipment described as “hand tools” was identified as containing lithium-ion battery-powered equipment, which required specialised handling procedures to reduce fire risks.
The Allianz report also highlights increasing concerns within the vehicle carrier sector, where a fire is reported every 37 days. In response, the WSC has been working with the International Maritime Organization to support enhanced fire safety regulations, including measures related to the transportation of electric vehicles.
“Industry will do its part, but it cannot solve this challenge alone,” added Joe Kramek. “Governments and regulators must enforce the international rules already in place to protect seafarers, ships, cargo and the global supply chain.”
The findings reinforce growing industry calls for stricter cargo declaration compliance and stronger enforcement measures to improve safety across the maritime sector.
