China: penalty for use of Starlink in Chinese waters

London P&I is alerting members and assureds that Chinese authorities have recently issued an administrative penalty against a foreign vessel for using the Starlink satellite service in Ningbo Port.

Our correspondents in China, Huatai Insurance Agency & Consultant Service Ltd and Oasis P&I Services Company Ltd, have advised that Starlink has not obtained operational approval in China. As a result, the use of Starlink's direct satellite communication service by vessels within Chinese waters is not permitted.

Any violations may be investigated and fined, with penalties ranging from CNY 30,000 to CNY 500,000.

The correspondents' circulars linked below set out further information and recommend steps to help avoid unauthorised use of Starlink in Chinese waters. These include:

• clear labelling of equipment;
• disconnecting power from onboard Starlink equipment before entering Chinese waters;
• recording the time and position when power is disconnected; and
• training crew on the restrictions.

To access the Huatai circular, click here.

To access the Oasis circular, click here.

Members should take appropriate measures to avoid any breach of local laws and regulations that may lead to penalties and delays.