MOT To Study More Transparent Mechanism On Port Charges
PUTRAJAYA, April 22 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Transport (MOT) is studying a more structured mechanism regarding port charges to ensure the sustainability of the country's ports as well as a balance between market needs and capacity development.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the current charge review is allegedly inconsistent and not transparent.
"So we want to create a more transparent and structured system where there is a periodic review, meaning there is a review of the charges annually, perhaps according to a lower formula.
"For example, if there is an increase in the CPI (Consumer Price Index), what is the annual inflation rate, let's say the annual inflation rate is two per cent, then the charge increase may be gradual and not sudden like today," he said.
He told the media after the monthly assembly of the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Raikan Kasih MADANI 2025 event, here today.
Loke said the matter would be refined to ensure that all parties could receive fairer charges and the country's ports remained competitive.
"If we do not look at the increase or reassessment of these charges, the revenue of port operators will decrease, of course they will not invest to increase capacity.
"So we have to balance between the needs of the market and also the needs of building capacity development," he said.
Regarding the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM)'s call for the government to delay the implementation of the proposed 30 per cent increase in port tariffs, especially for container handling and storage, Loke said the Port Klang Authority (PKA) and the Johor Port Authority (JPA) had not submitted any documents for final approval or gazette.
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