China’s Ministry of Transport slaps 14 container lines with fines

The container lines were fined a total of 2.39 million Chinese yuan renminbi (U.S. $347,212) for failing to record or recording inaccurate data on their freight rates.    China’s Ministry of Transport has fined 14 container lines for failing to record or recording inaccurate data on their freight rates, Splash24/7 and Seatrade Maritime News both reported.
   The container lines were fined a total of 2.39 million Chinese yuan renminbi (U.S. $347,212). Eight of these container lines severely breached regulations, including CMA CGM, Evergreen Line, Hamburg Süd, Wan Hai Lines, Wan Hai Lines (Singapore), Korea Marine Transport Co (KMTC), Heung-A Shipping Co and Gold Star Line.
   The names of the other six container carriers fined for lesser offenses were not revealed.
   “The carriers that the ministry spoke to have agreed to review their practices and adhere to the regulations going forward, as well as to take a serious view on truthfully declaring and recording freight rates,” China’s Ministry of Transport said.
   Looking ahead, the transport ministry said it will tighten its supervision of the international shipping market, increase the level of inspection, and impose stiffer penalties to maintain a sustainable and healthy market environment, Seatrade said.