MPA Singapore stops port dues concession for bunker tankers

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore announced withdrawal of 50% port dues concession for MARPOL-compliant double hulled (MCDH) port limit bunker tankers, starting from 1 January 2018.

The concession was introduced in January 2012, aiming to encourage the use of MCDH port limit bunker tankers in the Port of Singapore.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has since required heavy fuel oil to only be carried by such tankers, from 2015. As the IMO requirement has been in force since then, MPA Singapore informed that it would be withdrawing the existing 50% port dues concession.

As a result, with effect from January 1, 2018, all port limit bunker tankers will be required to pay annually port dues in full at the prescribed rate.

    “MCDH port limit bunker tankers with keel laid date before 1 January 2018 will, however, continue to enjoy the 50% port dues concession until they reach 5 years of age,” MPA added.