Port of Rotterdam to include sustainability discounts in port dues from 2025

A new calculation method will be used for seaport and inland port dues from 1 January 2025. 

PHOTO: A container ship moored in the Port of Rotterdam. Getty Images

Port dues are fees paid by ships for docking in ports.

"The method for calculating the seaport and inland port dues is changing from 1 January 2025. Sustainability and efficiency are gaining a more significant role in line with the Port of Rotterdam Authority’s ambitions," the port authority said.

From 1 January 2025, total seaport dues will be lower for shipping firms if their seagoing vessels score high on the Environmental Ship Index (ESI). The ESI is an international benchmark for emissions from sea-going vessels. "Vessels that perform better than the legal norm will be rewarded a 10% discount on the gross tonnage part of the port dues," the Port of Rotterdam website states.

A vessel with a Green Award certificate can claim additional discount on total port dues, the port authority said. The Port of Rotterdam's Green Award Foundation provides these certificates to shipping firms that have made investments in their vessels to improve energy efficiency and safety.

Under the system, LNG carriers, chemical or gas tankers and crude oil or product tankers with Green Award certificates are eligible for a 15% discount on the share of outstanding port dues that are calculated on the basis of the sea-going vessels’ gross tonnage, the port authority said.

A ship's load factor will also play a role in the new seaport tariff calculations. Seaport dues per transhipped tonne of cargo will be less if a vessel’s shipping capacity is used efficiently, thereby cutting emissions per transhipped tonne.

Last year, the port authority reduced port fees for ships using green fuels in Rotterdam.

By Manjula Nair

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