Russia restricts entry to its ports for ships that have previously been to Ukraine

Since the beginning of the year, Russia has begun to restrict the entry of ships that have previously been to Ukraine into its Black Sea ports.

This was reported by BPG Shipping Director Gennady Ivanov on Facebook.

Now such ships are subject to additional inspection by the FSB (the inspection takes up to two days and selectively even includes an underwater inspection).

Ivanov noted that the Russians do not have clear criteria for “safe” ships: the FSB makes the decision individually (it is said that one entry into Ukraine out of the last 10 port calls is allowed in total). If the ship has entered Ukraine more often, it is refused. According to the expert, at least two ships have already been refused.

Local traders are trying to stipulate in the charter party that the time spent on inspections is paid for by the shipowner. The shipowner must also provide a replacement in case of refusal.

Ivanov added that in terms of the impact on freight, this could create a tonnage restriction and, accordingly, an increase in freight for all exports from the Black Sea in the short term.

USM previously reported that FSB permits and underwater inspections are slowing down ship calls to Russian ports.