The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has deferred a 5% increase in annual port dues for bunker tankers, a measure that will benefit the operators of more than 100 bunker tankers in Singapore waters.

The implementation date of additional port dues will be deferred to January 1, 2010 from January 1, 2009. The surcharge was to have been levied on bunker tankers above 16 years old but below 17 years old.

The deferment was decided ''in view of current economic situation'' and will help to mitigate operating costs for the affected bunker tanker operators, MPA said in a port marine circular Tuesday.

''We hope this deferment will contribute towards helping the industry adjust to the changing business climate,'' said Captain M Segar, Group Director (Hub Port). ''The bunkering industry is an important component of Singapore's maritime cluster, and integral to our growth as a premier hub port.''

The port dues are meant to discourage the operation of older bunker tankers due to their higher impact on environment and lower operational efficiency, according to MPA.

The current port dues surcharge is 10%, rising to 15% from January 1, 2010.

They include a 10% increment in surcharge for each subsequent year above 16 years old. This surcharge will rise to 15% from January 1, 2010.