Gov’t to extend waiting time for ships crossing through Turkish straits in bid to make revenue

ANKARA

The government is set to complete a legal framework that will make it possible for ships passing through Turkish straits to extend their waiting time from two days to seven, Transport, Maritime Affairs and Communications Minister Ahmet Arslan has said. 

Arslan said on June 29 in Ankara that the move was part of a bid to turn the region into a lucrative fuel feeder spot.

With the extension of the waiting time for these ships, Turkey will get additional sources of income by undertaking repair and maintenance of them or meeting other demands, he added. 

“As the waiting time limit for ships passing through Turkey’s straits is fairly short, these ships do not meet many of their needs here, only their compulsory needs. This represents a loss of income for us. We are working on a plan to benefit more from this opportunity,” Arslan said, state-run Anadolu Agency reported. 

He noted that the government would complete a legal framework which enabling ships to extend their waiting time from 48 hours to seven days in order to meet their broader needs. 

“This will pave the way for turning our region into a fuel feeder hub,” Arslan said. 

Vessels having non-stopover passage through Turkish Straits may stay at anchor for up to 48 hours without taking “free pratique,” provided that they have permission from the relevant authorities. According to the existing rules, all stays including supplies, crew changes and repairs are permitted - without any increase on dues - within 48 hours at anchorage.