In a tightening of measures by China, international trading vessels that call the country within 14 days of crew change will need to provide negative COVID-19 test results.
China’s Ministry of Transport, General Administration of Customs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs jointly issued the notice to further prevent and control the cross-border spread of the coronavirus disease for ships trading internationally, regardless of flag.
The new measures, which become effective from 24 September, applies to all internationally trading ships that will berth in China.
According to the notice, if the international trading vessels changed crews at the port within 14 days before berthing at China, the crew members need to have taken a COVID-19 test within three days ahead of the boarding date with negative results required.
The tests must be carried out by organizations designated by Chinese embassies and consulates abroad.
