China: Sludge and Garbage Disposal Requirement Change

The Ministry of Transport (“MOT”) of China has issued a formal notice on the revision of its Provisions on Prevention of Marine Environmental Pollution Caused by Ships and Their Related Operations. One of the changes made to this regulation was to remove completely the requirement for international sea-going vessels departing from Chinese ports to dispose of their sludge and garbage ashore prior to departure. 

The revised Provisions came into effect on 13 December 2016. Members are however advised to be aware that the changes to this MOT regulation should not affect any other requirements regarding sludge and garbage disposal under relevant legislations or international conventions such as  MARPOL. 

Attached is a circular from our local correspondent regarding the above.