Many towage and pilot service providers have reduced their prices amid the difficulties faced by maritime transport companies due to the slowing down in activities because of COVID-19, according to a report by the Viet Nam Maritime Administration.

The administration said eight pilot companies and 40 towage service providers have cut prices by 10-15 per cent for Viet Nam-owned ships operating domestically until the end of this year.

Analysts have said maritime transport would continue to face difficulties through this year due to a drop in global demand for goods and stagnation in production.

Deputy head of the administration, Hoang Hong Giang, said the Ministry of Transport has been urged to reduce some port fees for ships like docking and mooring charges. — VNS