Liberia has renewed its landmark deal with China to secure port fee discounts there.

The original agreement has been extended by another five years.

Liberian-flagged vessels will save 28% when visiting Chinese terminals.

The registry said this can translate into an effective net increase in time-charter equivalent rates of $1,000 per day based on a 100-day voyage.

It added that the deal gives Liberia a clear advantage over other flag states, such as the Marshall Islands, that do not have diplomatic relations with China and do not get any port dues discounts there.