Comité International Radio-Maritime

Comité International Radio-Maritime (CIRM) is a long-established, non-profit international technical association representing companies engaged in the marine electronics industry. Founded originally in Spain in 1928, it has since been reconstituted in Belgium and eventually moved to London, where it operates close to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). CIRM holds non-governmental organization (NGO) consultative status with the IMO and is a key sector member of several major international bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

CIRM’s principal role is promoting the development and application of electronic systems and technology for maritime navigation, communication, and safety of life at sea. It offers technical advice to international regulatory bodies, coordinates industry views on regulatory issues, and aids in the promotion of marine electronics standards and best practices. Through extensive networking, CIRM fosters collaboration between marine electronics manufacturers, regulatory institutions, and maritime operators to improve the usability, safety, and efficiency of maritime technology.

The organization represents over 100 member companies from more than 30 nations across six continents, reflecting its global reach and influence. CIRM also manages specialized functions such as issuing Manufacturer IDs for electronic safety devices (e.g., AIS-SART, EPIRBs) in accordance with ITU recommendations, and administering business practices codes for marine communication authorities.

By serving as a hub of information and coordination, holding annual conferences, and participating as an observer at international maritime organizations, CIRM plays a critical role in shaping maritime electronic navigation and communication technologies. It reflects the interests of its members at the global level and ensures their innovations align with international safety and operational standards.

Founded: 1928 (Spain), reconstituted 1947 (Belgium)
Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Status: Non-profit international technical association
Membership: 100+ companies, 30+ countries
NGO consultative status with IMO
Sector member of ITU, Liaison member of ISO and IEC
Observer status with IHO, IALA, ICS, RTCM
Website: http://cirm.org
Industry Focus: Marine electronics, navigation, communication systems

No related lobbyists found.

Maritime Electronics and Communication
Marine Safety and Navigation Technology
International Maritime Regulatory Affairs
Technical Standards and Industry Codes

CIRM networks extensively within international maritime and telecommunication organizations:

International Maritime Organization (IMO)
International Telecommunication Union (ITU-R and ITU-T)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)
International Chamber of Shipping (ICS)
US Radiotechnical Commission for Maritime (RTCM)
International Maritime Pilots Association (IMPA)
International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO)

No specific publicly available data on the amount of money CIRM has spent on lobbying activities in the EU or their breakdown by year could be found in public sources including the EU Transparency Register.

CIRM interacts with various EU bodies through its registered lobbying activities, focusing on maritime technology regulation and standards. It engages primarily with:

Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE)
European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA)
European Commission units responsible for transport and telecommunications

The detailed list of all meetings CIRM has conducted since its registration with the EU Transparency Register to June 2025 is not publicly available from open sources. Typically, meetings are held involving units responsible for maritime safety, electronic communication, and regulatory compliance in the European Commission and relevant agencies.