(1) Changes to Cargo Handling – Fuel Surcharge
Starting from September 1, 2023, and until further notice, there will be a monthly review of the Fuel Surcharge applied to cargo handling at RAK Ports. The Fuel Surcharge for October 2023 is determined based on the published fuel price in September 2023, which is 3.40 AED per gallon for diesel.
For each Metric Ton or Freight Ton of cargo loaded or discharged at RAK Ports, a surcharge of 0.23 AED will be invoiced.
To calculate this surcharge rate, we use a formula that considers the average fuel purchase price per liter and the average fuel consumption per ton loaded or discharged in 2020, compared to the published monthly fuel purchase price in the UAE, typically released after the 28th day of each month.
Cruise ship with 206 pax ran aground near Denmark
(2) Boarding and Disembarking from Ships
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has issued a notice outlining the proper procedures for getting on and off ships while they are in port.
Accessing a ship when it’s docked or at anchor may seem routine, but it’s a crucial activity that should never be taken lightly. The importance of safe access can sometimes be underestimated, especially in situations with limited berthing options or when a vessel is berthed briefly. Failing to ensure safe access can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities, especially when challenging weather conditions or significant tidal variations are factors.
The SOLAS Chapter II-1 lays down the requirements for accommodation ladders and gangways. Additionally, SOLAS Chapter IX implements the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which mandates procedures, plans, and instructions for essential shipboard operations. Ensuring safe access to a vessel is considered one of these critical operations under the ISM Code and should be incorporated into the vessel’s safety management system.
India abolishing cabotage laws to boost coastal shipping
(3) Discussions Between India and Russia Regarding an Alternative Trade Route
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has extended an invitation to an Indo-Russian Workshop on the Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC) in Vladivostok, Russia. This announcement was made during a session focused on exploring the possibilities of establishing the EMC as an alternative trade route connecting the Russian port city of Vladivostok and the Indian port city of Chennai.
The workshop is scheduled to take place from October 30th to November 1st, 2023, in Chennai, India. This event aims to facilitate discussions and collaborations between India and Russia for the early operationalization of the EMC, potentially offering a new and strategic trade route between the two nations.
