News

LOGISTICS TRADE BODIES UNITE IN CALLS FOR INDUSTRY ACTION ON NEW EU IMPORT DECLARATIONS

Global and European trade associations representing shippers, forwarders and vessel operators have issued an urgent alert to all businesses involved in the movement of goods into or via the European Union, Norway, Switzerland or Northern Ireland, by sea, road or rail to be ready for the new Import Control System (ICS2) that will start to be introduced from June this year.

EC CONSIDERS BRENNER ROAD RESTRICTIONS ILLEGAL

On 14 May, the European Commission issued a reasoned opinion on the complaint brought by the Italian government over the road restrictions in the Brenner Region.

SUPPORTING COMPANIES IN APPLYING THE EUROPEAN SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING STANDARDS

On 17 May, CLECAT participated in an event organised by DG FISMA aimed at showcasing ongoing initiatives and discuss ideas for further mechanisms to support companies that apply the new reporting standards stemming from the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

SURGE IN CONTAINER SPOT RATES ON MAJOR EAST-WEST TRADES

The Loadstar reported this week that container spot rates continue their upward trajectory on key east-west trades, driven by double-digit week-on-week gains on Asia-Europe and Asia-North America routes. A recent Loadstar article referred to the ongoing Red Sea crisis coupled with unexpected high demand.

VESSEL JUGGLING LEAVES OCEAN ALLIANCES SHORT OF ASIA-EUROPE CAPACITY

Recent research from Alphaliner has reported on a significant shortfall in the number of ships available for Asia-Europe services, despite the introduction of new container shipping capacity. The data indicates that these services are operating with nearly 10% fewer ships than required. The Red Sea crisis and the diversion of vessels around the Cape of Good Hope have exacerbated the situation.

AIR CARGO DEMAND CONTINUES TO GROW IN MARCH

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its latest data on global air freight markets, highlighting a robust growth in demand.

CABO VERDE SECURES PREFERENTIAL TRADE TERMS FOR FISH EXPORTS

The European Commission has renewed a derogation allowing Cabo Verde to benefit from preferential trade terms under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP).

EU-NEW ZEALAND TRADE AGREEMENT UNLOCKS NEW OPPORTUNITIES

The EU-New Zealand trade agreement, effective from 1 May 2024, opens significant new export opportunities for EU businesses, producers, and farmers. Expected to cut €140 million annually in duties for EU companies, this landmark deal anticipates up to 30% growth in EU-New Zealand trade over the next decade, potentially boosting EU exports by €4.5 billion annually.

EU STRENGTHENS ANTI-DUMPING MEASURES ON BIRCH PLYWOOD IMPORTS

The European Commission has extended anti-dumping measures on birch plywood imports from Russia to now include imports from Kazakhstan and Türkiye. This action follows an investigation revealing that Russian birch plywood was being transhipped through these countries or completed there before being shipped to the EU, circumventing existing duties.

CLECAT Meetings and participation in events

ICS2 Trans-European Coordination meeting
22 May, Online

CLECAT Customs & Indirect Taxation Institute
31May, Hybrid

Electronic Customs Coordination Group
6-7 June, Brussels

CLECAT General Assembly
19 June, Brussels

CLECAT Air Freight Logistics Institute
20 June, Hybrid

SAGAS meeting
20 June, Hybrid

EU Meetings

Council of the EU

Environment Council
17 June, Luxembourg

Transport Council
18 June, Luxembourg