The Federal Law aims to bring the current system for managing shipping along the route into line with the Russian Federation Marine Doctrine through to 2020, approved by the Russian President on July 28, 2001. This will help to guarantee Russia’s national interests in the Arctic.
The Federal Law defines the term ‘the area of the Northern Sea Route’ and clarifies the legal status and boundaries of this transport system. Its provisions will see the establishment of a federal state body to administer the shipping route and organise shipping through its waters. The law sets out this body’s duties, including the issue of permits for vessels to use the Northern Sea Route.
The law sets out the rules for shipping in the area concerned in the aim of ensuring safety and preventing and monitoring pollution of the marine environment by vessels.
The law also introduces icebreaker support, pilotage and ice-breaking fees which are set in accordance with Russian Federation law on natural monopolies based on the actual quantity of services provided.