The provincial government of Jiangxi has decided to proceed with its ambitious plan to withdraw old vessels, starting from October. By the end of 2013, according to the plan, 750 old vessels, defined as more than 15 years old and less than 30 years old, will be withdrawn on a compulsory basis. This will have the effect of reducing the average age of all vessels registered with the provincial government to less than 15 years and increasing the average tonnage to 600 dwt.

All withdrawn vessels will be scrapped in specially-appointed yards and their owners will be granted government subsidies. Jiangxi government will also provide financial incentives to encourage the owners to build new, standard vessels.

The scheme is part of a central government drive to standardise vessels on the Yangtze.