Yangtze Maritime Safety Authorities recently issued its 2010 Trustworthy Award to 23 vessels, which allows them to enjoy preferential treatment in different areas including simplified reporting procedures and priority for departure after a blanket shipping suspension. They will also attract fewer onboard inspections, the option of paying anchoring and other fees within a fixed period of their choosing, and safety exemptions when passing the Three Gorges shiplocks except for those carrying dangerous cargo.

The scheme was started in 2007 by the Yangtze MSA to promote vessel and crew member safety. Any vessel that has not been fined over the previous two years can apply for the award. Maritime safety officials hope that by recognising trustworthy vessels in this way, a culture of obeying navigational rules and prioritising safety will prevail in the shipping industry on the Yangtze.

No details were given on the total number of vessels that have received awards in previous years.