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Members of the CLECAT Maritime Logistics Institute met this week to discuss the latest developments regarding maritime freight transport, notably the impacts of the Red Sea crisis, the implementation of ICS2 Release 3 for maritime transport and the European Ports Alliance.

Members exchanged on the latest developments regarding the crisis in the Red Sea and its impact on maritime transport. Due to the reconfiguration of vessel services via the Cape of Good Hope, freight forwarders have experienced delays, shortage of equipment and a surge of freight rates and surcharges. Despite some improvements, some countries still experienced loss of traffic and increased costs, most notable in the Mediterranean Sea. CLECAT continues to call on carriers to exercise care in the imposition of surcharges and freight hikes, to ensure it only covers the extra costs incurred by the exceptional situation, and that they are applied on affected sea routes.

Members received an update on the preparatory work for the implementation of ICS2 Release 3. The deployment window for maritime carriers will start as of 4 June 2024, while the house-level filers deployment window will open as of 4 December 2024. CLECAT continues to collaborate with the European Commission and other actors of the maritime supply chain to ensure a smooth start of the system.

Finally, members discussed the launch the European Ports Alliance Public Private Partnership which aims to fight against drugs smuggling by raising awareness among the different actors but also supporting port authorities and private shipping companies in their role in the fight against drug trafficking and criminal infiltration. CLECAT and its members will provide their expertise in the meetings of the Alliance.