Ship Fined for Pollutant Discharge in Bohai Sea, Violating China's Inland Water Regulations

On August 4, 2023, the Maritime Bureau held a meeting and decided to impose a fine of 50,000 to 80,000 yuan on a ship for violating regulations on pollutant emissions in the Bohai Sea area. The decision underscores China's commitment to enforcing environmental regulations in its waters.

The GB3552-2018 'DISCHARGE STANDARD FOR WATER POLLUTANTS FROM SHIPS' defines 'INLAND WATER' as rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and other surface water bodies within the territory of the People's Republic of China. Term 4.1 of this standard clearly states that all sewage from ships must be collected and delivered to receiving facilities, prohibiting any discharge into the sea within INLAND WATER.

China MSA, drawing upon past experience in similar cases, considers the area west of the line connecting the west corner of Lao Tie Shan and Penglai Jiao as part of China's inland water. Therefore, any discharge of waste from ships in this region is strictly prohibited. According to the LAW OF MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, the subject vessel was liable for a fine ranging from RMB 20,000.00 to RMB 100,000.00.