HPL introduces amendments to cargo clearance regulations

Hitadhoo Ports Limited (HPL) has introduced major changes to the system for clearing cargo from the Hitadhoo Regional Port operated by it, and a new regulation that the parties involved must implement has been made public. With this new regulation, all previous procedures and rules applied in connection with this matter have been cancelled. This regulation, which was formulated to ensure port safety and security and to strengthen the service system, has set important conditions for the parties clearing cargo. Main points of the regulation: Registration: Companies importing cargo as clearing agents or under their own name must register with HPL’s Cargo Clearance Department and pay the registration fee and annual fee as per the tariff. If the annual fee is not paid before December 31, services may be suspended. Prohibitions: Involving HPL employees, vessel crew members and drivers in the work of clearing cargo is prohibited. Number of staff: Registered entities must have at least 10 staff including laborers, supervisors and signal men, and for every additional 9 laborers, there must be one supervisor. Entry permission and procedure: Entry to the port area is permitted only with an entry pass issued to parties who have completed a “Port Workers Training Programme” within the past one year and have a clean criminal record. Refreshment programs must also be completed once every two years. Dress code standards: While working at the port, it is mandatory to use high visibility jackets with the company name and logo printed on them, while wearing fat loop track suits with side pockets and shorts for work is prohibited. All matters regarding the implementation of these new procedures will be carried out by HPL’s Cargo Clearance Department and Security and Safety Department.