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In response to fuel price fluctuations caused by the conflict in the Middle East, and in order to maintain stability in the shipping and maritime services market, the Vietnam Maritime Administration has issued a document requiring businesses in the industry not to exploit the situation for profit.
Accordingly, the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration requests that ship owners, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and logistics businesses refrain from arbitrarily increasing freight rates or applying unreasonable surcharges that are disproportionate to actual costs and contrary to legal regulations.
Port businesses need to proactively support the smooth entry and exit of vessels, ensuring timely and uninterrupted fuel supply; strengthen coordination with fuel suppliers and management agencies to ensure safe, continuous, and compliant supply processes; and organize berths, mooring areas, routes, and operating hours scientifically and flexibly to optimize infrastructure, shorten waiting times, reduce congestion, and improve operational efficiency.
Port businesses are also urged to monitor, compile, and report promptly on the status of goods backlog at ports, along with proactively proposing solutions to ensure uninterrupted logistics flows.
For import-export businesses and cargo owners, the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration recommends proactively updating market information and closely coordinating with transportation and logistics units to develop flexible and safe transportation plans.
Adjustments to delivery schedules, routes, transport methods, or contract terms should also be considered to minimize risks and losses. When difficulties arise or there are signs of violations regarding freight rates or surcharges, import-export businesses and cargo owners should promptly report them to the relevant authorities.
Amid rising fuel costs, pilotage and towing companies are encouraged to optimize operations and reduce operating expenses to maintain business efficiency.
The Maritime Port Authority and the Sub-Department of Maritime and Inland Waterways are tasked with strengthening inspections and supervision of service price declarations and postings. Any illegal fee collection practices that negatively impact business operations will be detected and strictly dealt with according to their authority.
