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The Government will introduce the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) (Fees) Regulation made under the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance, (LVO) into the Legislative Council next Wednesday (October 25).
A spokesperson for the Economic Development and Labour Bureau said today (October 18) the Fees Regulation would provide for the fees to be paid in respect of certain services and matters under the LVO and its subsidiary legislation and to simplify the fee structure applicable to local vessels as provided under the Merchant Shipping (Fees) Regulations, and the Shipping and Port Control (Ferry Terminals) Regulations.
"In addition, the Fees Regulation will introduce a multiple entry permit scheme for river trade vessels and reduce the licence fees of local vessels. These measures will enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Hong Kong as an international shipping and logistics centre," the spokesman said.
"The proposed multiple entry permit allows river trade vessels a maximum of 10 visits to Hong Kong in a month. The permit fee would be pitched at the cost for five single entry permits to attract more river trade vessels to call Hong Kong more frequently by maximising the use of the multiple entry permit," the spokesperson said.
The Fees Regulation will be tabled in the Legislative Council on October 25, for negative vetting.
Ends/Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Issued at HKT 14:35
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