Next year, the port tariffs paid by sea-going vessels in Rotterdam, will increase by 0.3%. This is equivalent to half the rate of inflation over the past year and less than in Hamburg or Bremerhaven.
Bremen will increase the tariffs next year by 1%, Hamburg is expected to follow its German peer.
The adjustment is in line with the three-year agreement made by Deltalinqs, VRC, VNPI and the Port of Rotterdam Authority regarding the development of port tariffs. At that time, parties agreed to let tariffs increase at a moderate pace for a period of three years – by half the rate of inflation, to a maximum of 1% per year. In addition, the Port Authority has taken a number of targeted measures intended to stimulate specific segments: the transshipment of containers, for example.
In the Containers sector, the Port Authority is focusing on increasing the number of transshipment containers handled at the port. The average port tariff charged for this type of container is 8 €.
In 2017, the existing discount of 3.75 € per deepsea container will be raised to 5 €. The current transshipment discount of 2.50 € per container for feeder containers will also be maintained in the coming year.
Calling twice will be rewarded
By taking these measures, Rotterdam wants to lure companies to substantially increase the volume of transshipment cargo relayed via Rotterdam. In addition, the existing incentive for container vessels to call on Rotterdam twice during the European leg will be maintained, said the Port Authority. The port tariff that is charged for a second call on Rotterdam is 25% of the normal tariff.
In accordance with the three-year agreement made with VNPI two years ago, the 2017 tariff for tankers transporting crude oil will once again be 1.5% lower than the adjusted »general« sea port tariffs.
Discount for »green ships«
Rotterdam will also maintain its existing discount for clean vessels based on the Environmental Ship Index (ESI). Vessels that score at least 31 points on this index will receive a 10% discount. It will be multiplied by two if the vessel releases relatively low nitrogen emissions. To become eligible for this extra discount, the vessel needs to score at least 31 points in the NOx emissions category according to ESI standards.
Inland port tariffs
It has been agreed to raise port tariffs for inland shipping by half the rate of inflation in the coming year – similar to the agreement made regarding sea port tariffs. This means that Rotterdam will increase its inland port tariffs for 2017 by 0.3%.