ESPO alarm over differential charging
The European Sea Ports Organisation has expressed serious concern over European Commission plans to advocate ” differential charging” for the port sector. ESPO has asked the Commission for clarification following a speech by an official suggesting differential charging by authorities was a good way to reduce ship emissions, thereby improving air quality. The organisation insists it has no opposition to market-driven discounts, but will fight any attempt to introduce mandatory charging schemes.
It will be capable of handling 9m tonnes of cargo annually, although this will be extended to 15m tonnes depending on demand.
The Commission would like to make all forms of transport pay for not only the infrastructure they use but also hidden costs, including global warming: a principle known as ‘internalising external costs’.
Industry is fiercely opposed to pricing interference.
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