A newly approved decree concerning dredging activities at seaport waters and inland waterways will take effect on July 5. This decree emphasizes strict adherence to environmental protection laws and the sustainable management of marine resources.
Regulatory Exemptions and Requirements
Under the new decree, when dredged material is disposed of in an onshore area or a location approved by the provincial-level People’s Committee, the project head investor, organization, or individual receiving the material is exempt from following regulations on natural resources and minerals. Conversely, if the dredging activity is conducted by an organization or individual, the project head investor must report to the provincial-level People’s Committee for oversight.
Environmental Safeguards
To prevent environmental pollution, those involved in dredging must devise appropriate storage or handling solutions for the dredged materials. In cases of sea dumping, project head investors are required to report the completion of disposal and undertake environmental monitoring, ensuring that marine ecosystems remain unaffected.
Publication and Accessibility of Disposal Information
The provincial-level People’s Committee is tasked with annually publishing information about dredged material disposal locations. This information must be accessible at the committee’s headquarters and on the local e-portal. Applications to receive dredging materials can be submitted in person, via post, or through the online public service system.
Sea Dumping Procedures
Regarding sea dumping, the People’s Committee will compile and announce a list of disposal locations, including those situated six nautical miles offshore. Investors can then submit requests for approval of material disposal to the People’s Committee, which must issue a decision within 30 days. If an application is denied, the committee must provide a written explanation and inform the disposal area management of the decision.
Concerns from Seaport Businesses
Businesses operating in Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province’s seaports have expressed concerns over being subjected to the same financial obligations as mineral mining for their dredging activities. These companies argue that annual dredging is crucial for maintaining safe and deep transit channels for ships, which is integral to their operations and not a profit-making endeavor like mineral extraction.
Call for Regulatory Adjustments
A representative of the Việt Nam Seaports Association (VPA) highlighted the need to address this issue promptly to support seaport market development and economic growth. “The high costs for disposal of dredged materials will push port businesses to find alternative ways to recover capital, impacting other expenses, especially logistics costs, and consequently affecting import-export businesses and the broader economy,” stated the VPA representative.
This decree represents a significant step towards balancing environmental protection with the operational needs of port businesses, aiming to foster a sustainable and efficient maritime industry in Việt Nam.