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Indonesia cracks the whip on Tanjung Priok congestion

Indonesia cracks the whip on Tanjung Priok congestion
The Indonesian government is getting serious about solving the port congestion problem at the main Tanjung Priok Port, with Chief Economics Minister Chairul Tanjung ordering the implementation of measures to improve cargo transit times with the goal of cutting dwelling time by a third to four days from the current 6.2 days by the end of the year, he was quoted as saying by local media.

The measures include more stringent oversight of unclaimed containers, encouraging 24-hour operation of port stakeholders, the implementation of an electronic-based system for paperwork, and the expedition of all remaining construction projects in Tanjung Priok Port. All port-related transactions must also use the rupiah as base currency.

There will be a concerted effort over the next three months, he said, adding that failure to comply would result in criminal charges.He warned that the government will show less tolerance for exporters and importers whose containers sit in the port for too long. Chairul highlighted the fact that there were many containers that have been in the port for more than 30 days and some cases of as long as two years. He vowed to issue a new regulation within two weeks on the matter.

Director general for customs Agus Kuswandono pointed out that according to regulations, containers unclaimed for 30 days will be controlled by the agency, by the state after 60 days, and then after three months the state has the right to take over the cargo.Other measures include instructing port operator Pelindo II to reserve parking spaces for trucks to relieve traffic in the port.

Trade Minister Lutfi has been assigned to be in charge of the implementation of an electronic system for port-related paperwork while deputy transportation minister Bambang Susantono is responsible for expediting the development of port infrastructure.