The use of ship radio stations is subject to three categories of statutory regulations:
Administrative Licensing System
Pursuant to Article 27 of the *Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Radio Administration*, vessels intending to establish a radio station must apply to the maritime administration authority for a *Ship Radio Station License*. This license is valid for a period of five years, and any modifications to the equipment necessitate a re-verification process.
Communication Watchkeeping Obligations
Article 36 of the *Maritime Traffic Safety Law* explicitly stipulates that vessels must maintain a continuous watch on VHF Channel 16, DSC Channel 70, and the MF/HF distress frequencies. Failure to respond promptly to VTS calls may result in fines ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 RMB.
Equipment Compliance Management
In 2023, the Putian Maritime Safety Administration investigated and penalized numerous violations involving the unauthorized installation of unapproved equipment (such as the KENWOOD TM-271A). The vessels involved were ordered to remove the equipment and were subject to administrative fines.
