European ports hike charges to cover security costs

MOST PORTS in Europe are expected to introduce extra charges to cover the additional security requirements of the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) code before the end of the year.
These have already been applied at the British ports of Tilbury, Felixstowe and Thamesport
Clearing agents are being charged £10.50 (about R126) per import container and £5.50 (R61) for each export container, according to Safcor Panalpina.
The forwarder expects similar charges to be introduced at other UK ports shortly and at most European ports before the end of this year.
These charges will be passed on to SA importers and exporters where applicable.