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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has announced that it has decided to postpone the introduction of additional port dues for older bunker tankers due to the current economic climate.

In a circular for bunker suppliers and bunker craft owners and operators, the MPA said "In view of the current economic situation, MPA will defer the implementation date of the additional port dues from 1st January 2009 to 1st January 2010."

"This deferment will help to mitigate operating costs for the affected bunker tanker operators. With effect from 1st January 2010, additional annual port dues will be introduced for bunker tankers that are 16 years old and above."

Earlier this year, the MPA announced that it would be introducing additional port dues for bunker tankers that are 16 years old and above to discourage the operation of older bunker tankers, given their higher risk to the marine environment and limitation in enhancing operational efficiencies.

The MPA said that the measures were part of its "continuous efforts to grow the industry as a younger, more efficient and environmentally-friendly fleet of bunker tankers in the Port of Singapore".

The port dues surcharge will be implemented from 1st January 2010 in accordance with the table below.

Age of Bunker Tanker	Surcharge Before 01/01/2010	Surcharge From 01/01/2010
Over 16 & below 17 yrs old	10%	15%
Subsequent Age	10% increment for each subsequent year	15% increment for each subsequent year