The U.S. Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force have released new port arrival procedures in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
U.S. Coast Guard
- Non-passenger commercial vessels that have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) or embarked crew members who have been in China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) within the last 14 days, with no sick crew members, will be permitted to enter the U.S. and conduct normal operations, with restrictions. Crew members on these vessels will be required under U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) authority to remain aboard the vessel except to conduct specific activities directly related to vessel cargo or provisioning operations.
Australian Border Force
- The Australian Border Force advises that any foreign travelers who have left or traveled through mainland China on or after February 1, 2020 will be refused entry to Australia, in order to minimize the potential spread of novel coronavirus. Aircrew and cruise ship crew are exempt from these restrictions, but commercial vessel crew members who hold a Maritime Crew Visa (MCV) are not exempt. Any vessel yet to leave its last foreign port may be subject to the above restrictions.
U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Information Bulletin
Australian Border Force Enhanced Border Control Measures
The overall situation remains very fluid. Contact your local Expeditors representative for more information and operational assistance.