HCMC – Three key associations in the logistics sector have asked the Government to tighten control over the fee adjustments imposed by foreign shipping lines, as these lines have consistently hiked container service fees by 10 to 20% since the beginning of this year.
The Vietnam Shippers’ Council (VNSC) has formally communicated with the Government and relevant industries, stressing the urgency of taking measures to regulate the adjustment of terminal handling charges (THC) by foreign shipping lines.
The Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) has expressed concern over the current regulations, which only require foreign shipping lines to provide a notice 15 days before increasing surcharges, without any obligation to provide justification or undergo inspections by competent authorities. This regulatory gap poses a considerable challenge for businesses, according to the association.
To address this issue, VLA has proposed adopting regulations and international business practices to enhance the effectiveness of managing fee collections by foreign shipping lines.
Similarly, the Vietnam Ship Agents, Brokers, and Maritime Services Providers Association (Visaba) have voiced their apprehensions regarding the continuous hikes in surcharges by foreign shipping lines and have called for stricter control in this regard.
Visaba said that foreign shipping lines levy about 10 types of charges, the rates of which are determined at their own discretion.
