Reduction in Maritime Pilotage Fees to Support Shipping Enterprises
Amid rising cost pressures, reducing maritime pilotage service fees has become an important solution to support shipping enterprises in maintaining stable operations.
The Ministry of Construction has called on maritime pilotage organizations to cut service fees by at least 10% for vessels flying the Vietnamese flag, especially oil tankers.
This policy is expected to be implemented from April 1 to May 1.
Shipping Costs Rise Due to Middle East Instability
Recently, tensions in the Middle East have driven up fuel costs, transportation expenses, and security risks.
In particular, the Strait of Hormuz—a key global energy shipping route—is facing increasing risks.
This situation has placed significant pressure on Vietnam’s fleet operating on international routes, raising logistics costs and directly affecting import-export activities.
Government Calls for Minimum 10% Fee Reduction
According to a directive signed by Deputy Minister Nguyen Xuan Sang, the policy to reduce maritime pilotage fees aims to:
- Lower vessel operating costs
- Support shipping enterprises
- Stabilize the logistics market
This is considered a practical measure in the context of rising input costs.
Pilotage Organizations Agree to Implement
In response, maritime pilotage organizations nationwide have agreed to implement the proposed fee reduction.
According to the Vietnam Maritime Pilot Association, coordinated efforts between regulators and businesses will help ease cost pressures and ensure smooth maritime transport operations.
Mr. Nguyen Duc Thanh noted that fuel costs currently account for approximately 15–20% of pilotage service expenses, creating significant pressure on companies.
Operational Optimization to Maintain Efficiency
To adapt to rising costs, pilotage enterprises have proactively:
- Optimized operational processes
- Coordinated pilot dispatch more efficiently
- Reduced operating expenses
A representative of Tan Cang Pilot Company stated that despite reducing fees, the company still ensures:
- Maritime safety
- Service quality
- Smooth logistics operations
Promoting Digital Transformation and Supply Chain Stability
In the coming period, pilotage enterprises will continue to accelerate digital transformation to improve efficiency.
Key solutions include:
- Applying technology in operations management
- Optimizing resources
- Reducing long-term operating costs
These efforts not only provide short-term support for businesses but also contribute to maintaining stable supply chains and ensuring national energy security.
