Differential port usage introduced

Port usage fees may become contingent upon each port's situation. Currently, however, port usage fees have been uniform nationwide. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (MOMAF) recently unveiled that it is pushing to adjust port usage fees.

An official at MOMAF said, "Port usage fees have caused problems. Specifically complex fee calculations and low port usage fee led to meager earnings, and crippled attempts from investors to withdraw their money.”

"For this overly complex system, we will try to simplify the rates system and hike the rates in order to reflect the current situation." he added. The main changes would come from a differential rates system introduction.

A total of 28 trading ports nationwide have charged uniform port usage fees. However, they will be categorized into 4 groups based on their service quality, and will then be able to charge rates based on services offered.

Port usage fees include port dues, anchorage charges, wharfage, and berthing fees as well as a few other minor charges.