The volume of cargo handled at Vietnam’s seaports reached nearly 160 million tonnes in the first quarter, up 8.4% over the same period last year, according to the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

Illustrative image (Source: VNA)

Container goods were estimated at over 5 million TEUs, a year-on-year rise of 14%. The total number of vessels carrying passengers, however, was down 10% to 16,473.

More than 1.6 million passengers visited Vietnam through seaports from January to March, a year-on-year decline of 36%.

The administration said freight volumes at seaports were not overly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and remain on an upward trend despite growth being slower than the average in previous years.

Nevertheless, the number of cruise ships and passengers fell significantly, especially from abroad

To resolve difficulties facing businesses, the administration said it has simplified administrative procedures and provided essential equipment to ensure loading and unloading at ports proceed as normal.

It also proposed the State Bank of Vietnam direct credit institutions to adopt support measures such as cutting interest rates for businesses and delaying debt repayments.

The Ministry of Finance, meanwhile, suggested fee reductions and exemptions for seaport enterprises affected by COVID-19.