Introduction of PA systems in Pusan and Inchon spurred on

The controversial Port Authority (PA) bill will likely be presented to the National Congress no later than next February after going through the necessary formalities.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (MOMAF) revealed that it went ahead with discussions on the PA bill with related ministries including the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MOFE) and the Ministry of Planning and Budget (MPB). Accordingly, MOMAF stated that it would push the necessary formalities forward to legislate the PA law.

In its business analysis, MOMAF recommended that the PA system be introduced in the Port of Pusan and Inchon and discussed PA law establishment in the first half this year.

However, some conflicts regarding financing and decision-making processes between local governments and related ministries have delayed the law. To make matters worse, the Korea Shipowner's Association suggested that the PA system should be postponed.

In the mean time, MOMAF expedited the proceedings towards securing self-regulation and independence after the inauguration of the new MOMAF minister Sam-nam Yu. Therefore, the law will be submitted to the National Congress no later than next February, said a working level officer at MOMAF.