Three Gorges shipping center brings 82 government services under one roof

By Gao Qing

The Three Gorges Shipping Service Center has processed more than 18,000 applications in its first year, bringing 82 government services previously handled at different locations under one roof.

 

Previously, applicants had to visit six separate government offices across the city. The center now brings together national, provincial, and municipal government services covering waterway transport, navigation channels, ports, maritime affairs, and ship inspection. It is the first facility of its kind in Hubei to integrate Yangtze River maritime services with local port administration.

Yichang lies in the Three Gorges section of the Yangtze River, one of the world's major inland shipping corridors. Vessels and shipping companies must complete a range of administrative procedures involving maritime affairs, ports, waterways, and ship inspection. Before the center opened, businesses had to deal with multiple agencies at separate locations. These services are now available at a single venue.

The center has introduced a streamlined process for A-rated companies, allowing certain documents to be submitted after the initial application and reducing processing times for newly built vessel permits by more than 70%. Straightforward applications can be handled on the spot, service hours are extended during peak periods, complex cases receive tailored solutions, and on-site services are available for applicants who cannot visit in person.

The center reports a 100% satisfaction rate among service users. The firstshipping company from outside Yichang moved in earlier this year, with more expected to follow. Plans are also underway to build a dedicated headquarters facility for the shipping industry.

Chen Fei, Zhu Tingting and Guo Xiaohui also contributed to this story.