AI Impact on International Maritime Law

1. Commissioning Unit

National Science and Technology Council

2.Execution Period

August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2028

3.Total Budget

NT$ 2,346,000

4.Project Overview

The integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into Taiwan's maritime sector has spurred innovation and become a crucial driver of economic growth. To achieve Taiwan's maritime nation vision, the National Academy of Marine Research released the "Marine Technology Policy Framework Report (2021-2025)" in June 2021, which outlines a strategy for marine technology development. The report emphasizes the evolution of marine technology beyond traditional domains, incorporating AI and other emerging technologies. However, while AI advancements such as remote control, autonomous navigation, vessel monitoring, and anti-collision systems offer solutions to various maritime challenges, comprehensive regulatory frameworks are still required to ensure the safety of life, cargo, and vessels at sea. Concerns such as AI decision-making transparency, the inability to identify responsible parties, and the risk of misuse must be addressed.

This research aims to explore maritime accidents caused by AI-operated unmanned vessels replacing human operators. The study will analyze international conventions, examine relevant case studies, and assess how maritime law allocates liability when AI replaces human decision-making. The objective is to ensure clear attribution of responsibility for AI-related maritime accidents and safeguard the interests of all parties involved. The focus will be on
three international maritime conventions: the Hague-Visby Rules, the 1976 Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims, and the 1993 International Convention on Maritime Liens and Mortgages. The research will
interpret the provisions of these conventions, applying the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties to address AI’s role in replacing human operators, and propose necessary amendments.

Expected outcomes include a comprehensive analysis of these three conventions, alongside recommendations for legal reforms to clarify AI-related issues in maritime law. Additionally, the research team will submit one SSCI journal article and one conference paper annually, contributing to Taiwan's international standing in maritime law. Collaborative work with Professor Jason CHUAH and his team at the University of Malaya has already resulted in two
SSCI Q2 journal articles. This collaboration will continue, focusing on different conventions over the next three years.

In conclusion, this research aims to facilitate the adaptation of international maritime law to technological advancements. It will provide actionable recommendations to enhance Taiwan’s legal framework while contributing
valuable insights to the global discourse on AI in maritime law.