Ships sailing in Hong Kong waters have a new incentive to keep their engines and fuel systems in good repair.
Any international vessel caught emitting smoke as dark, or darker than, shade two on the Ringelmann chart for three minutes or more at a time will now be subject to a hefty fine, according to the Hong Kong Marine Department's Notice No. 92 of 2014.
Its owner, his agent and the master will each liable for a penalty of HK$25,000 for a first conviction, rising to HK$50,000 for any subsequent offences.
The punishment for local vessels is less steep, with owners, agents and coxswains liable for an initial fine of HK$10,000, increasing to HK$25,000.
