Earlier this month, the Maritime Safety Administration issued a circular requiring foreign flag vessels to make mandatory reporting prior entering the territorial waters of China.
To remind, from1st September, all foreign vessels must report their presence to the maritime administrations of the People’s Republic of China when entering Chinese territorial waters.
Penalties for non-compliance
Where vessels do not comply with the requirements, the Maritime Safety Administration can impose a fine of between CNY 50,000 – CNY 500,000 (USD 7,700 – USD 77,000) on the owner, operator or manager of the vessel and a fine of between CNY 10,000 – CNY 30,000 (USD 1550 – USD 4,600) upon the master.
In light of the above, Gard Club issued the following recommendations:
- Gard club recommends that masters of vessels calling any port in China familiarize themselves with the Circular and look out for any future Notices to Mariners from the hydrographic office or any changes to the Admiralty Sailing Directions.
- The reporting limits should be marked on the navigation charts and all navigating officers should familiarize themselves with the requirements.
- Masters should contact their local agents before calling ports in China to ensure they comply with the reporting requirement. In case of any doubt Gard correspondents can be contacted for clarification.
