An automated container terminal at Shanghai's Yangshan Deep-Water Port. [Photo/IC]

The Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport issued new regulations on port administration and navigation management for the Yangshan Deep-Water Port area. The regulations will take effect on Feb 1, 2026, and remain in force until Jan 31, 2031, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and safety at the key international shipping hub.

The new measures apply to the Yangshan Deep-Water Port area, encompassing its waterways, land areas, coastlines, and associated facilities, including anchorages and channels.

They define responsibilities for managing these resources, policy formulation, administrative systems, and the construction and maintenance of port infrastructure. The regulations also cover safety production, construction quality, market operations, and environmental supervision.

Under the new regulations, specific requirements are outlined for vessels operating within the port.

Pilotage is mandatory for foreign-flagged vessels, nuclear-powered ships, vessels carrying radioactive materials, oil tankers exceeding a certain size, and ships approaching the navigational limits of port channels.

Operators engaging in port business activities, including providing docking facilities, passenger services, cargo handling, and towing services, must obtain a port operation license from the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport.

Businesses offering ancillary services, such as fuel supply or ship waste management, must register with the commission.

The regulations place strong emphasis on safety and emergency preparedness. Port operators are required to establish safety management systems, invest in safety measures, and develop emergency response plans.

They also address the handling of dangerous goods, requiring operators to report planned operations to the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport and obtain prior approval.

In addition, the regulations require port facility operators serving international routes to obtain a port facility security compliance certificate, subject to annual verification. Failure to meet security standards may result in the suspension of services for international vessels.

Environmental protection is another key focus of the regulations, encompassing activities such as unauthorized waste disposal and pollution.

Ports and terminals are required to install monitoring facilities and pollutant receiving systems, and to construct shore-power facilities for vessels.

The Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport will oversee the implementation of the regulations and conduct inspections to ensure compliance.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Transport