Several of the world’s leading container carriers have notified China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of their initiatives to reduce various shipping surcharges in China.

In an announcement on its website, NDRC said Japan’s Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line), South Korea’s Hanjin Shipping, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM), Taiwan’s Evergreen, Wan Hai Lines, Yang Ming, China Shipping Container Lines (CSCL) and others are taking action.

The lines will lower various charges ranging from port fee, bill of lading fee, signing and cancellation fees, vessel licence fee, documentation fee, among others.

NDRC said the companies are expected to implement the reduced surcharges from 15 October.

“NDRC requires that shipping companies reasonably determine their surcharges based on cost and changing market conditions, as well as comply with business regulations,” NDRC stated.