The Ministry of Finance has proposed waiving multiple Aviation and Maritime Fees from April 1 to the end of 2026, aiming to stabilize prices and reduce cost pressures for businesses. The proposal is part of broader efforts to support production activities and maintain supply chain stability in key transport sectors.

Detailed Information

The Ministry of Finance is currently collecting feedback on a draft circular regulating the exemption of various fees to support business operations in two critical sectors: aviation and maritime.\

Under the proposal, in the aviation sector, the Ministry suggests a full exemption of all charges currently stipulated in Circular No. 193/2016/TT-BTC. In addition, airport and aerodrome concession fees regulated under Circular No. 247/2016/TT-BTC are also proposed to be fully waived.

Specifically, the proposed exemptions include fees related to aircraft registration certification, appraisal of aircraft purchase and sale contracts, licensing and examination of flight crew members, cabin crew, and ground staff. However, it is important to note that fees directly constituting ticket prices, such as security screening and passenger processing, are not included in this exemption.

In the maritime sector, the proposal covers exemptions of Aviation and Maritime Fees specified under Chapters II and III of Circular No. 261/2016/TT-BTC, as amended and supplemented by Circular No. 90/2019/TT-BTC and Circular No. 74/2021/TT-BTC. These primarily include vessel tonnage fees, maritime safety assurance fees, and anchorage usage charges.

If approved, the policy is expected to take effect from April 1, 2026, until December 31, 2026. Fee collection levels will return to current regulations starting in early 2027.

Underlying Reasons

The proposal is driven by the strategic importance of the aviation and maritime sectors as the primary arteries of international trade. Any disruption or sudden cost increase in these sectors can create ripple effects, driving up the prices of imported goods and production inputs in the domestic market.

With volatile global fuel prices remaining high, fuel costs have placed significant pressure on profit margins for both shipping lines and airlines. This has directly impacted operational efficiency and pricing structures across the logistics chain.

By addressing these cost pressures through the temporary removal of Aviation and Maritime Fees, policymakers aim to prevent further escalation in transportation costs and ensure smoother trade flows.

Expected Benefits

The proposed waiver of Aviation and Maritime Fees represents a proactive policy intervention to support economic stability.

First, it helps maintain economic supply by reducing operational costs, thereby contributing to market price stability and easing financial burdens on businesses and consumers.

Second, it enhances the competitiveness of Vietnam’s seaports and aviation gateways within the global logistics network. Lower cost structures can attract more international carriers, increase cargo throughput, and strengthen Vietnam’s position as a regional logistics hub.

From a business perspective, especially for logistics and transportation companies, the policy creates a more favorable operating environment, enabling better cost management and improved service continuity.

The proposal to waive Aviation and Maritime Fees through the end of 2026 reflects a targeted and timely policy response to current economic challenges.

By reducing cost pressures in two of the most critical transport sectors, the Government aims to stabilize supply chains, support business recovery, and reinforce Vietnam’s competitiveness in global trade.

Source: VnExpress

31/03/2026