The Panama Canal is introducing a fee for the disruption of the ship's schedule
The new levy will be levied on vessels that have been involved in, for example, an accident and will depend on their size, type and cargo.
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is introducing a schedule disruption fee. The fee is introduced for vessels that cause delays and problems in the operation of the canal.
This is written by TTS with reference to The Maritime Executive.
The new charge will be levied on ships that have been involved in, for example, accidents, in addition to normal transit charges. It will depend on the size, type of vessel and cargo.
Charges for disruption of the traffic schedule will be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the length of the delay and its impact on channel operation. The fee will be calculated based on a fixed rate per ton of cargo or vessel's tonnage.
ACP explains that such a measure will ensure the efficiency and reliability of operations on the channel.
It is noted that the introduction of a fee for a disruption in the traffic schedule caused a mixed reaction. Concern is expressed that vessel operators may be blamed for circumstances beyond their control. Situations that could give rise to demurrage charges could potentially include navigational errors leading to vessel collisions or mechanical breakdowns that could have been avoided with proper vessel maintenance.
ACP in turn statedand that the toll fee is a fair and transparent solution to problems related to disruptions that affected the operation of the channel. ACP also said it will work closely with vessel operators to minimize the impact of disruptions and ensure they are resolved quickly and efficiently.