Nautical Term: Flag State

Definition of Flag State

Flag State refers to the nation where a ship or vessel is registered. This nation holds the legal jurisdiction to oversee the operation of the vessel, whether it is being used in home waters or abroad.

For example, a cargo ship named Sea Star is registered under the flag of Panama. Panama, therefore, is the Flag State of the Sea Star. Any legal issues or disputes concerning the operation of the Sea Star would be handled by Panamanian authorities, as per the Flag State’s jurisdiction.

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