China: SPRO Contracts - Qianhe Group *Update*
This is an update to the North Industry News posted on 6 May 2015 in relation to the status of Chinese SPRO Qianhe. The latest position is:
The following Qianhe SPRO’s Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Xiamen, Shenzhen are currently unable to perform their SPRO functions and those Members currently signed up to any of them will need to seek alternative SPRO cover.
For Qianhe Ningbo and Qianhe Zhoushan there will be no change since these offices were not investigated and there are no alternative SPROs at these ports.
Those Members who are currently signed up to one of the affected Qianhe SPRO’s (Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Xiamen, Shenzhen) but who are not likely to visit their areas within the next 30 days, may wish to terminate their agreements and seek new SPRO cover on a voyage by voyage basis. It is recommended that Members obtain PRC legal advice if they are considering terminating.
Alternatively, Members may wish to sign an addendum with Qianhe Ningbo on behalf of the affected Qianhe SPRO’s providing alternative arrangements. This addendum has potential shortcomings and, if Members wish to use this option, they should discuss with their Clubs.
The Club will continue to monitor the positon and we will continue to keep Members updated.