Hong Kong – New Air Pollution Regulations *Update*

06 November 2018

The Hong Kong Legislative Council has approved the Air Pollution Control (Fuel for Vessels) Regulation.

From 1st January 2019, all vessels (except for specified vessel types as set out in the Regulation) are required to use compliant fuel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.5% or use equivalent abatement technology when within Hong Kong waters. This requirement applies regardless of whether the vessel is sailing or berthing.

If found to be in violation of the Regulation, the vessel’s master and owner will be liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for six months. A failure to maintain the required records will also be liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for three months. 

Further details can be found in the letter from the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department which can be read here.

12 July 2018

New Hong Kong air pollution control regulations will enter into force on the 1 January 2019.

The regulation requires all ocean going vessels entering Hong Kong waters to burn only compliant fuels such as low-sulphur marine fuel (sulphur content not exceeding 0.5%), liquefied natural gas or any other fuel approved by the Director of Environmental Protection.

Vessels using onboard equipment that reduces emissions to the same or lesser levels of sulphur dioxide may be exempt from using such fuels.

Vessels will be required to record the date and time of fuel switching and keep these records for a minimum of three years.

The air pollution control regulation issued by the Environmental Protection Department can be read here.