Drastic Simplification of Application Process for Low-Speed Vessel Operation Support

Change of application process for support for low-speed vessel operation from application upon arrival to annual application in advance

 The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) announced that it will simplify the application process to increase participation in the “Low-Speed Vessel Operation System.”

 The “Low-Speed Vessel Operation System” reduces port facility use fees when vessels enter the low-speed operation areas at a certain speed or lower to reduce fine dust. Since December 2019, the system has been operated for foreign ships of 3,000 tons or more calling at Busan Port, Incheon Port, Yeosu/Gwangyang Port, and Ulsan Port.

 Previously, an application for low-speed operation support had to be submitted each time a vessel subject to it entered port, but the changed system will allow shipping companies to apply for it annually in advance. The application and subsequent verification will be carried out automatically using the port entry information and the vessel's AIS* track.

 *AIS (Automatic Identification System): A navigational device that can automatically transmit and receive information such as the ship's location, speed, course, and ship identification information via radio communication (VHF frequency)

 Shipping companies can check the list of ships eligible for low-speed operation through the “Port and Maritime Information System (PORT-MIS)” and apply. Applicant shipping companies can automatically receive the results of low-speed operation support application and verification, including previously omitted low-speed operation cases.