The Port Law was promulgated in 2003 and amended in 2015, 2017 and 2018 respectively. The latest revision entered into force on December 29, 2018.

There are 62 articles in total.

The key points are as follows:

1.This Law shall apply to the planning, construction, maintenance, management and administration of ports and other related activities.(Article 2)

2.The construction of a port shall conform to the port planning.

3.Whoever intends to engage in the business operation of a port shall apply in writing to the administrative department of port for obtaining the permit for business operation of port.(Article 22)

4.For the ports open to vessels sailing on international navigation lines, the relevant people’s government of the province shall, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the State, negotiate with the relevant department under the State Council and the relevant military organ for consent, and then report them to the State Council for approval.(Article 59)