The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is seeking to raise storage charges for foreign containerized cargoes beyond the free storage period by 32% and introduce a 150% surcharge on reefer container storage to alleviate congestion at terminals by encouraging timely container withdrawals.
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The rate increase, PPA said, is meant to optimize yard space usage and expedite the withdrawal of import containers, thus preventing congestion.
The 150% surcharge eyed on reefer storage rate, the agency added, will compel importers to pull out their customs-cleared containers, ensuring essential storage space inside the ports and deterring the practice of using ports for storage.
PPA said the congestion in reefer containers with some staying for six to seven months in terminals have led to the conversion of regular warehouses into makeshift reefer container storage. More affordable storage charges at PPA ports compared to private warehouses’ have resulted in the buildup at PPA facilities, impeding the accommodation of other inbound containers.
PPA said the increase in storage charges is not meant as a revenue source for the agency, and that cargo owners can easily avoid the fees by promptly withdrawing containers within the FSP.
The following are the proposed daily charges for 20-footer import containers going beyond the FSP of five days:
P635.32 from the previous rate of P481.30 for days 6 to 10
P698.85 from days 11 to 15
P762.38 from days 16 to 20
P825.91 from days 21 to 25
P889.44 from days 26 to 30
Beyond 30 days, P952.97 from the previous P721.95
For exports, the daily rates for a 20-footer following a four-day FSP will be:
P79.40 from the previous rate of P60.15 for days 5 and 6
P158.80 from P120.30, for days 6 to 11
P174.68 from days 12 to 16
P190.56 from days 17 to 21
P206.43 from days 22 to 26
P222.31 from days 27 to 30
P238.19, previously P180.45, beyond the 31st day
For transshipment, after the initial 15-day FSP, the proposed daily rates for a 20-footer are:
$14.44, up from the previous rate of $10.94, for days 16 to 20
$15.88 from days 21 to 25
$17.33 from days 26 to 30
$18.77 from days 31 to 35
$20.22 from days 36 to 40.
$21.66, previously $16.41, beyond 42 days
The proposal also includes new rates for 35-footers, 40-footers, and 45-foot containers. ■