A recent evaluation showed that the Port State Control Directive (2009/16/EC) continues to be pivotal in the defence against 'substandard' shipping in EU waters, but identified several areas that can be improved. The review of the Directive will focus on more targeted inspections concentrating on operational issues, an incentive mechanism for quality shipping, the recruitment and retention of inspectors, the interface with SafeSeaNet THETIS and the inclusion of foreign fishing vessels.