Port tariffs are critical for maintaining port operations while significantly impacting logistics costs and supply chain efficiency for businesses. In 2025, as operational costs rise due to inflation and infrastructure upgrade demands, understanding and managing port tariffs is key to sustaining a competitive edge.

1. Analysis of Port Tariff Structure

Port tariffs are typically composed of the following key fees:

• Mooring fee: Based on the vessel’s size and duration of stay at the port.
• Stevedoring fee: Covers the cost of moving containers from ship to yard or vice versa.
• Demurrage fee: Charged for containers remaining at the port beyond the free storage period.
• Quay usage fee: Calculated based on the volume of goods processed through the port.
• Additional fees: Including charges for refrigerated containers, security inspections, and waste handling.

Understanding these components enables businesses to better anticipate and control costs.

2. Comparison of Tariffs at Key Ports

Based on preliminary 2025 data:

• Cat Lai Port (Ho Chi Minh City): Stevedoring fees are approximately 950,000 VND per move for 20-foot containers and 1,600,000 VND for 40-foot containers.
• Da Nang Port: Slightly increased demurrage fees to optimize yard space utilization.
• Cai Mep – Thi Vai Port: Maintains stable quay usage fees until Q3 2025 to attract export-oriented businesses.

Variations in tariff rates among ports directly influence businesses’ port selection strategies.

3. Cost Optimization Solutions for Port Tariffs

Businesses can adopt the following solutions to minimize costs:

• Partner with professional freight forwarders: They can negotiate favorable rates and optimize shipping routes.
• Plan precise shipping schedules: Reducing container dwell time at ports helps avoid high demurrage fees.
• Utilize logistics management systems: Software solutions enable tracking and prevent unnecessary surcharge accrual.

4. Forecast of Port Tariff Trends for 2025 – 2026

Experts anticipate the following developments in port tariffs:

• Modest increases due to infrastructure investments: Ports are upgrading to meet growing transport demands.
• Digitalization of tariffs: Electronic tariffs enhance transparency and ease of payment.
• Incentives for green businesses: Ports may offer fee reductions for companies using eco-friendly vehicles or technologies.

5. Conclusion

Port tariffs are more than just costs—they are strategic factors influencing business competitiveness. By staying informed and implementing effective cost management solutions, businesses can optimize logistics operations and boost profitability in a challenging market environment.