FMC Holds First in Series of Briefings on U.S. International Liner Shipping Industry Issues & Concerns
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has issued a news release announcing that on September 21, 2004, it held the first in what would be a series of briefings with shipping industry representatives to develop a greater awareness and understanding of the current issues and concerns affecting the U.S. international liner shipping industry.
Sign up for a free preview to unlock the rest of this article
Communications Daily is required reading for senior executives at top telecom corporations, law firms, lobbying organizations, associations and government agencies (including the FCC). Join them today!
First Briefing Hears from NCBFAA Panel
According to the FMC, the Chairman, Commissioners and staff from all FMC offices and bureaus were briefed on general transportation pricing issues, various government reporting rules and requirements, and U.S. cargo security issues. In addition, certain members of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA) participated in a panel discussion on, among other things, the expanding role of the Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) in the U.S./foreign oceanborne commerce (especially with regard to value added services), and the impact on the industry of increased security measures since September 11.
Commissioners, FMC staff and panel participants also discussed various ways that the OTI industry is working with government agencies to improve U.S. cargo/port security while also maintaining efficient market processes. Finally, the panel discussed future U.S. import/export trade growth projections, industry reaction to anticipated larger cargo volumes, and the potential impact of such cargo growth on U.S. transportation infrastructure.
FMC Expects to Hold Subsequent Briefings with Other Industry Segments
According to the FMC news release, FMC Chairman Blust stated that he looks forward to subsequent sessions with other industry segments - shippers, carriers, marine terminal operators, ocean freight forwarders and other OTIs.
FMC news release (NR 04-13, dated 10/05/04) available at http://www.fmc.gov/Pressreleases/NR%2004-13%20OTIPanel%20Discussion%209%20-21-04.htm.