The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced on Tuesday its proposal for a moratorium on new port fees and charges, as well as the regulation of international shipping charges. This initiative is part of the DTI’s efforts to reduce transport and logistics costs in the country and ensure food security.
According to Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo, the DTI aims to implement a moratorium on pass-through fees and the imposition of additional port fees and charges. They also seek zero tolerance for gray costs and the enactment of legislation to regulate high international shipping charges. Castelo expressed confidence that these measures, although controversial, would yield the desired results.
The Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) expressed support for the DTI’s proposal, stating that it would provide relief to the export industry. Philexport President Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. emphasized the need for exporters to be consulted on cost increases, as many have been adversely affected.
Increased Costs
However, cargo owners, shipping lines, and other port users will experience higher costs for certain services at the Dumaguete Port and Manila North Harbor Port (MNHP), as approved by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA). Effective August 17, MNHP will implement a 10% increase in cranage rates, with specific charges for loaded and empty containers.
PPA also granted a 9% hike in 13 other services at MNHP, including container hustling, administrative fees, and extra labor services. Similarly, cargo handling fees for domestic shipments at the Dumaguete Port will be increased by 10% starting on August 17. The PPA also approved cargo-handling tariffs for foreign non-containerized cargo at the Dumaguete Port.
Container traffic in the country has been steadily increasing, with a 5% rise in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, indicating a resurgence in trading activities post-COVID-19. PPA expects container traffic to grow by 7% to 8% this year.
Lorenzo Shipping Corp. President Reynold John Madamba predicts a recovery in the shipping sector this year as mobility restrictions ease, with cargo volume potentially returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
