Issues for Owners at Chinese ports if crew test positive for Covid-19

Due to a spike in the number of Covid-19 cases in China linked to vessels arriving at Chinese ports following crew changes, the local Customs Authority has introduced enhanced procedures for testing crew members for Covid-19 when vessels call at Chinese ports. The Club’s local Correspondents, Oasis P&I, have issued the attached Circular to explain the new procedures and the ensuing consequences for Members and their vessels if any crew member is tested positive for Covid-19. We strongly recommend that Members review the Correspondents’ Circular and be guided by the same. The Correspondents specifically recommend that careful arrangements are made to test crew members for Covid-19 when the crew members sign-on to avoid the subsequent problems highlighted in the Circular, when the vessel arrives at Chinese ports.