Vietnam to cut maritime pilotage fees by 10% for domestic ships

The policy follows a Thursday request from the Vietnamese Ministry of Construction, which called on pilotage service providers to lower fees for ships flying the Vietnamese flag, particularly those transporting fuel.

Due to an escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel in the Middle East since late February, the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries about 20 percent of global oil supplies, has been effectively shut or severely disrupted.

The ministry said that the Middle East tensions have driven up global fuel prices while constraining supply, significantly increasing transportation and logistics costs.

These pressures have weighed heavily on businesses and posed broader challenges to economic activity and household expenses.

According to the ministry, the fee reduction is a practical measure to support enterprises and stabilize the domestic market during this difficult period.

It called on service providers to demonstrate solidarity and share the burden with residents and businesses.

On Friday, major pilotage service providers, including Vung Tau Shipping and Services JSC, Northern Vietnam Maritime Pilotage Company, Southern Vietnam Maritime Pilotage Company, Tan Cang Pilot Co., Ltd., and Maritime Pilotage JSC - TKV, confirmed they would implement the 10-percent discount.

The reduction will apply to all Vietnamese-flagged ships entering or leaving ports, with special emphasis on fuel transport vessels.