(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) Pollution fines in Turkey have experienced another substantial increase. The pollution fine rates were revised by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change and published in the Official Gazette dated 24th December 2024. The revised rates have risen by 43.93% since the last amendment in January 2024 and will be effective from 01st January 2025.
Key highlights of the 2025 update
- Vessels discharging hazardous substances or wastes will incur fines 10 times greater than those set for petroleum products in the revised tariffs.
- Vessels with a history of environmental pollution will face increased penalties: a first violation within a three-year period will result in a doubled fine, while subsequent violations will incur a 200% increase. Conversely, if a vessel successfully manages to eliminate the pollution by her own means, the fine will be reduced by two-thirds.
- The 2018 amendment remains in effect, stipulating that fines will be tripled if the responsible party is an "institution, organization, or business," which includes ship-owning and chartering companies.
- Fines for marine pollution incidents that occur within a Specially Protected Area (SPA), such as the Marmara Sea and other significant ports, will be doubled.
- Authorities require immediate payment of fines for alleged pollution, or suitable security must be provided; failure to comply will result in vessel detention.
- A 25% discount on the fine is available if payment is made within 30 days and before filing an objection.
- Objections can be submitted to the Administrative Court within 30 days of notification, but they do not stop collection of fine. It is advisable to pay the fine within the 30-day window to receive the discount, and then file an objection with the Administrative Court if justified.
Source: West of England
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