Transport Malta slams increase in port handling charges

Transport Malta has strongly rebutted Valletta Gateway Terminal’s (VGT) unilateral decision to raise port handling charges, technically known as Terminal Operator Charges (TOC).

VGT issued a Public Notice to its customers on 14 August stating that the new rates will apply as from 1 September 2014. 

During discussions held with the port terminal operator, the authority maintained a position against the increase in charges, a position that TM is still maintaining notwithstanding the publication of the public notice.

“The Authority maintains that the operator’s efforts at this particular time should focus on attracting new business to Malta through increased investments and marketing rather than increasing rates relating to domestic cargo.”

Transport Malta also insisted that any increase in rates should be accompanied by a relevant business case and a study analysing the impact.