Primorsky Krai in Russia's Far Eastern region will restrict coal transshipment and other flammable, toxic and explosive cargo at ports located within city boundaries starting in 2026, with a full ban to follow in 2027, the regional government said. Governor Oleg Kozhemyako signed the measure to reduce environmental damage and eliminate risks to public safety.

Container cargo handling at the affected ports will continue, and officials said the move will not undermine port operations because the facilities handle large volumes of containerized freight, local media reported. Coal should be redirected to specialized terminals outside populated areas, including Vostochny and Sukhodol.

The exact list of coal terminals that fall within city limits still needs to be clarified and could potentially affect Nakhodka Commercial Sea Port. Vladivostok Sea Fishing Port has already announced it will stop coal handling, while continuing to work with containers, vehicles and general cargo.

The restrictions had been under development for a long time, and a task force said it took into account the operational specifics of port facilities. Regional headquarters also plans to exercise powers granted by a presidential decree to impose external management on industrial, energy and other enterprises if their owners have failed to provide necessary protection against sabotage.