Rotterdam Port to offer 3pc recovery rebate in 2011

THE Port of Rotterdam Authority plans to award a one-off recovery rebate of three per cent on the tariffs for sea and inland harbour dues in 2011.

"The rebate is intended to support the companies in their further recovery from the crisis and in this way to strengthen the competitive position of the port complex further," a statement from port authorities said.

The agreements are valid for all sectors represented by the port employer's organisation Detains in the "market consultation process harbour dues." In 2011, the sea and inland dues will rise by one per cent as earlier agreed by the port authority and Detains in 2009. "On balance, these tariffs will go down by two per cent in 2011," it said.

"We had an agreement for two years, but after the consultation of the market, it is agreed to give extra support. The crisis rebate of last year is now followed by a recovery rebate to enable our customers to land as smooth as possible," said port authority CEO Hans Smits.

Said Association of Rotterdam Shipbrokers and Agents chairman Piet Hoogerwaard: "This general recovery rebate offers our customers the possibility to retain the improved results or to limit losses. It also contributes to the consolidation of the improved market share of the Port of Rotterdam."

Sea harbour dues cover the costs of seaside connection, vessel traffic management, landside connection and other products and services. In 2009, the port authority received EUR274 million (US$373.94 million) in sea harbour dues.
(Source:www.schednet.com)