Hong Kong terminals to introduce security charge

Hong Kong terminals to introduce security charge    Starting next month, terminal operators at the Port of Hong Kong will introduce a port security charge of HK$20 ($2.58) per twenty foot container and HK$30 ($3.86) for 40 foot or 45 foot containers.
   The surcharge will become effective on Aug. 15 at the following terminals:
   * Hongkong International Terminals Ltd.
   * Modern Terminals Ltd.
   * COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Ltd.
   * Asia Container Terminals Ltd.
   * CSX World Terminals Hong Kong Ltd.
   The security charge was agreed upon following discussions with the terminal operators and the Hong Kong Shippers’ Council. The fee will be paid directly to the terminal companies rather than to shipping lines while an administration fee of HK$2 (26 cents) will be collected by the Hong Kong Shippers’ Council, who said that they will pass it directly on to Hong Kong shippers.
   'The council has acknowledged the enhanced efforts and investments the container terminal operators have instituted at the Hong Kong port to strengthen the cargo handling facilities,' the shipper's group said.
   The council said it will scrutinize the accounts to make sure revenue is being used for the purpose of improving security. A review of the surcharge will be made after 18 months.