The Yangtze Maritime Safety Authority issued a circular on 17 March, announcing a raft of special measures to be adopted during Shanghai Expo 2010, which runs from May to October. The measures include on-the-spot passing permits to be issued to vessels carrying passengers and dangerous cargo, and to those entering a specially designated control zone near the Expo site.

Heads of shipping lines that have committed a safety offence will be forced to take personal responsibility by reporting in person to the relevant safety authorities to explain improvements in safety precautions. The measures will apply to all vessels entering Shanghai waters during the Expo. Shipping lines that plan to enter Shanghai are also advised to apply for special safety inspection by 1 April, or 15 days before their journey begins.