Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has introduced stricter compliance requirements for shipping agents and shipping lines to address disruptions in empty container returns, warning of financial penalties of up to SAR 50,000 per violation.
The measures are aimed at protecting importers from unjustified container detention charges and improving operational efficiency across Saudi ports.
According to a circular reported by Saudi business publication Maaal, Mawani has received complaints about container yards reaching full capacity, suspending acceptance of empty containers or failing to provide suitable return appointments. These disruptions have resulted in importers incurring detention charges for delays beyond their control.
Under the new requirements, shipping agents and shipping lines must ensure that designated empty container return yards have adequate operational capacity. They are also required to coordinate alternative return locations and notify customers in writing whenever changes become necessary.
Mawani has reiterated compliance with Circular No. 36 of 2026, which requires shipping agents to clearly specify the designated empty container return location when issuing delivery orders and verify that the nominated facility is capable of accepting returned containers.
To improve transparency and documentation, the authority has introduced a standardised form to record unsuccessful container return attempts and the reasons behind them. Where yard operators refuse to provide formal documentation, alternative verifiable evidence, including booking records, rejection notices and correspondence, may be accepted.
Shipping agents must also review detention charges relating to documented periods during which empty container returns were not possible. Unjustified charges must be settled or cancelled in accordance with applicable regulations.
As part of its enforcement measures, Mawani will intensify monitoring of all shipping agents and shipping lines for 15 days from the circular’s issuance. Each shipping agent is required to submit a detailed compliance report within the same period.
The authority warned that continued noncompliance could lead to additional corrective measures, tighter regulatory supervision, extensions of regulatory free-time allowances and public disclosure of companies found in violation.
Financial penalties could reach SAR 50,000 for each violation, representing the maximum amount permitted under the applicable regulations. Mawani has also expressly prohibited retaliatory action against parties submitting complaints.
The move reinforces the responsibility of shipping lines, their agents and container yard operators to ensure reliable empty container return arrangements, while preventing importers from bearing additional costs arising from operational failures beyond their control.