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Implementation of certain components of the higher fees at the Davao International Container Terminal will be deferred for members of the Association of International Shipping Lines following an agreement with the terminal opeator
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DICT starting April 1 is implementing a 17.7% tariff adjustment for on-dock terminal and empty container depot charges, applicable to foreign and domestic cargoes and vessels, to sustain the terminal’s operational capabilities and service standards
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The parties also agreed on the provision of certain time-bound commercial considerations during the initial phase of implementation
Implementation of certain components of the higher fees at the Davao International Container Terminal will be deferred for members of the Association of International Shipping Lines (AISL) following an agreement with the terminal operator.
The agreement was reached following the April 7 consultative dialogue between AISL and DICT to discuss the implementation of the terminal’s tariff adjustment, the shipping lines’ group said in a statement.
The meeting followed AISL’s receipt of a formal notice on March 27 from DICT on the 17.7% tariff adjustment for on-dock terminal and empty container depot charges, applicable to foreign and domestic cargoes and vessels, with an effectivity date of April 1, 2026. DICT’s last tariff adjustment was in 2022.
In view of the limited lead time, AISL said it sought an opportunity for a more comprehensive exchange of views to better understand the basis of the adjustment and to convey the perspective of its member shipping lines.
As a result of the dialogue, AISL said DICT agreed to extend transitional arrangements applicable to AISL member lines, including a brief deferment in the application of the revised charges for the relevant component and the provision of certain time-bound commercial considerations during the initial phase of implementation.
It was likewise clarified that the officially published tariff schedule remains in effect, with any adjustments in billing treated as temporary commercial accommodations within the bounds of existing policies.
During the meeting, AISL said it raised the concerns of its members, particularly on the timing of the implementation and the scale of the increase as it relates to shipping line charges. It was emphasized that abrupt adjustments may pose operational and commercial challenges, and that a measured transition period would better enable stakeholders across the supply chain to plan and adapt accordingly.
READ: AISL warns of delays, higher costs in sea cargo
AISL likewise underscored the importance of maintaining a competitive and predictable operating environment, noting that such considerations are vital in supporting the continuity and efficiency of trade.
For its part, DICT provided an overview of the considerations underpinning the adjustment, including prevailing cost conditions and the need to sustain the terminal’s operational capabilities and service standards.
It was explained that the adjustment forms part of broader efforts to ensure that the terminal, located in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, remains responsive to ongoing cost pressures while continuing to deliver reliable services to its users.
DICT also highlighted that the parameters guiding such adjustments are aligned with the applicable regulatory framework.
AISL said the discussion was constructive and forward-looking, allowing both parties to better appreciate the broader context within which their respective concerns arise.
“Both AISL and DICT underscored the value of open communication and sustained engagement, recognizing that collaborative efforts are essential in navigating current industry challenges. The parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a stable, efficient, and responsive port environment, and expressed their intention to continue working closely in support of the broader maritime and logistics sector,” AISL said.
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