Oman Discusses Fees for Strait of Hormuz Ships
Oman has told European governments that commercial vessels using the Strait of Hormuz may eventually need to pay charges for certain maritime services. However, Muscat has indicated that any proposed payments would have to comply with international law and may not take the form of compulsory transit tolls.
Oman Discusses Strait of Hormuz Fees
Omani officials reportedly told European allies that conditions in the Strait of Hormuz could not simply return to the system that existed before the recent regional conflict.
Possible charges could cover services such as helping vessels navigate safely, responding to pollution, clearing hazards and maintaining secure shipping routes.
It remains unclear whether Oman believes every vessel should be required to pay or whether the proposed charges would be voluntary and linked to specific services.
Oman Rejects Mandatory Shipping Tolls
Oman has publicly maintained that it will respect international maritime law and does not support allowing any country to impose unilateral tolls for passage through the strait.
Muscat has been working with legal and maritime experts on a model that could resemble arrangements used in other busy international waterways, where shipping companies contribute towards navigation and environmental services.
Any formal proposal would likely require international support, potentially including approval or oversight from the International Maritime Organization.
US and Gulf States Oppose Hormuz Fees
The proposal comes despite Oman joining the United States and Gulf Cooperation Council countries in rejecting tolls, fees or attempts by Iran to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington has demanded that Iran guarantee safe, open and toll-free passage through the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes, carrying a substantial share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Any compulsory charge or disruption could increase shipping, insurance and energy costs worldwide.
