New Mangalore Port Authority Announces Rebates on Vessel Charges for Container Ships

The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has announced tariff concessions on vessel-related charges to attract container traffic and improve its competitive standing against neighbouring ports.

According to a trade notice issued by the port authority, mainline container vessels will receive a 50 percent rebate, while feeder container vessels will receive a 35 percent discount. These concessions apply to berth hire, port dues, and pilotage charges.

The reduced rates are applicable to vessels berthed between November 3, 2026, and March 31, 2027, for handling containers. The trade notice clarifies that the discounts do not apply to ancillary activities such as bunkering or flag changes of vessels.

Under previous notices, feeder vessels were eligible for a 25 percent concession on port dues and berth hire, a policy previously extended up to December 31, 2026. Mainline vessels previously received a 40 percent concession across port dues, berth hire, and pilotage. The latest revisions enhance these discounts.

Port users noted that strategic tariff discounts provide necessary cost parity for carriers. According to stakeholders, the adjustments help absorb rising operational overheads, encourage additional vessel calls, maintain stable ocean freight levels, and prevent the diversion of Karnataka's hinterland cargo volumes to competing regional terminals.

Stakeholders also emphasized that enhanced discounts for feeder vessels remain critical for maintaining connectivity to neighbouring transhipment hubs, which supports the seamless movement of Karnataka's export-import trade.

"Strategic tariff adjustments and port concessions are critical tools for enhancing regional competitiveness and lowering logistics overheads for exporters and importers. By offering targeted rebates on vessel-related charges, the New Mangalore Port Authority is addressing key cost pressures faced by carriers. This approach not only helps retain regional cargo volumes but also supports steady trade operations by encouraging consistent vessel calls within the logistics ecosystem." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes