There have been various changes implemented by PNG Ports Corporation in recent months. The most significant of these is the change in working arrangements for the receival and storage of empty containers on the wharf in PNG. In particular for Lae and Port Moresby the shipping companies no longer store their empty containers on the wharf as had been the practice in the past. These containers can now only be delivered to the port to meet a ship during a more defined window. This means all containers being returned to the shipping companies now must be delivered to a third party off wharf depot. This is the common practice in other countries and will benefit the management of cargo through ports, especially given the large project cargo that has been anticipated for the LNG project.

This in effect has forced the shipping companies to secure off dock container facilities to receive, store and handle containers prior to repatriation from PNG. Previously, the shipping companies were not charged by PNGPC and therefore there was no recovery by the shipping companies in pricing models. The cost of off dock facilities in PNG at this time is expensive as suitable rental properties are scarce and prices are at an all time high. All of this means the shipping companies needed to commit a significant investment to provide these facilities and do so on short notice.

In addition for PNG's minor ports where storage of empty containers will remain at the wharf, significant storage charges will now be incurred by the shipping companies as imposed by PNG Ports Corp.

The cost will be recovered by a surcharge on all import containers. These charges are:
·PGK 350/ 20' container
·PGK 560/40' container

The Equipment Handling Charge will become effective from the following sailings:

Ex Australia:
·Papuan Chief v08 ETD Brisbane 19/03

B.Ex Asia
·Pacific Mariner v23SB ETD Port Kelang 14/03
·Pacific Navigator v8SB ETD Jakarta 14/03
·Tasman Endeavour v1009SB ETD Ho Chi Minh City 09/03
·Pacific Resolution v1005S BETD Shanghai 08/03

The amount of the Equipment Handling Charge will be subject to periodic review.

For further information please do not hesitate to contact your local Swire Shipping representative or our Customer Service department on 1300 550 505.

Swire Shipping
Sydney
www.swireshipping.com
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