Updated Marine Notice on Liberia-China maritime agreement

The Liberia Maritime Authority issued Marine Notice INT-003 providing updated information regarding the maritime transport agreement between the Government of the Republic of Liberia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China.

Originally signed on September 5, 2018, the agreement has been renewed for a five-year period, from December 11, 2024, to December 11, 2029. The agreement is intended to strengthen friendly relations between the two countries and promote cooperation in the maritime sector, based on mutual benefit, equality, freedom of navigation, and the principle of non-discrimination.

The notice outlines key provisions for shipowners, operators, masters, and officers of Liberian-flagged vessels. A significant change is the application of identical tonnage dues for Liberian-flagged vessels entering Chinese ports, meaning they will be charged the same rate as Chinese-flagged vessels. The same reciprocity applies to Chinese-flagged vessels entering Liberian ports, which will also be subject to the same dues as Liberian vessels.

In addition to this, Chinese authorities will facilitate the arrival and handling of Liberian ships by simplifying port procedures, reducing delays, and ensuring that waste reception services for ships are available. The goal is to improve efficiency in the shipping process and avoid unnecessary hold-ups.

The agreement also establishes clear protocols for cooperation in various areas. Both countries agree to work together to promote the development of maritime fleets and ports, ensuring safe navigation and the protection of the environment. The agreement also emphasizes the importance of mutual information exchange on international maritime conventions, safety standards, and maritime technologies.

Furthermore, the notice outlines that the official documents of Liberian-flagged vessels, such as certificates of nationality and tonnage certificates, will be recognized by Chinese authorities, meaning vessels will not have to undergo remeasurement in Chinese ports. Similarly, seafarers holding Liberian-issued Seaman’s Identification and Record Books will have their documents recognized by China. In turn, Liberia will recognize the Seafarer’s Passport issued by China for Chinese crew members.

The notice also includes provisions for crew members of Liberian vessels, allowing them to go ashore in Chinese ports, as long as they possess valid identity documents and the necessary permits have been submitted to the relevant authorities. If needed, members of the crew can be hospitalized in China according to international maritime traffic facilitation regulations.

Additionally, crew members holding valid documents and visas will be able to enter, stay, depart, or transit through China for various reasons, such as joining their vessel or returning home. However, China reserves the right to deny entry to any crew members deemed undesirable.

In case of an emergency or incident, Chinese authorities are required to provide the same level of rescue and assistance to the crew and passengers of a Liberian-flagged vessel as they would to a Chinese vessel. Any relevant incidents must also be reported to the Liberian authorities promptly.

Finally, the agreement allows for the settlement and remittance of shipping revenues in freely convertible currencies between the two countries. Shipping companies from Liberia can settle their revenues in China and use them for payments within China or transfer them abroad as per the exchange rate set by the national banks of both countries.

This notice, effective December 11, 2024, outlines the key provisions that shipowners of Liberian-registered vessels must follow when operating in China, ensuring the smooth and cooperative functioning of maritime transport between the two nations.