China Golden Week
Dear Valued Partners & Clients,
China Golden Week is a significant national holiday in China, during which many businesses and government offices will be closed. This holiday typically spans seven days, from October 1st to October 7th, and it includes the celebration of China National Day. Please be aware that during this period, there may be disruptions and delays in our services, including production, shipping, and communication with our Chinese counterparts.
We understand the importance of your business operations and are committed to providing you with the best service possible. While we aim to minimize any inconveniences, please be prepared for some delays due to the holiday period.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. We will do our best to address your needs promptly.
Golden Week 2023, 2024 and 2025 - PublicHolidays.cn
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.
SILA Imports - imports@sila.net.au
SILA Exports - exports@sila.net.au
SILA Sales - sales@sila.net.au
Market Update – October
Greetings from SILA Global!
As October unfolds, it's crucial to examine the evolving landscape that defines this industry and delve into the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry this coming month. The China market is bracing itself for significant shifts in the shipping and logistics landscape, primarily due to the annual National holiday, which spans from October 1st to October 7th. This holiday period, while a time of celebration and reflection for many, has ripple effects that resonate throughout the shipping industry. Here, we delve into the forecast for the next month and the challenges and changes that lie ahead.
Space Supply and Scheduling
Week 39: Schedule Shuffling
The kickoff to October brings with it several notable alterations to shipping schedules. In Week 39, we'll witness:
- North East Asia-Australia (A3N) Service Sliding:The A3N service is set to slide into Week 40. This schedule change will necessitate adjustments for shippers and logistics operators.
- Panda Bunching:A phenomenon known as "Panda Bunching" is expected. Multiple shipments are grouped together, resulting in altered transit times and potential delays.
- Service Delays - China-Australia Express (A1X):The A1X service, originally planned for Week 39, will also be affected by the holiday and will now operate in Week 40.
Week 40: Blank Sailing Dominates
Week 40 will see a significant impact on shipping services, including:
- Blank Sailing Galore:Most of the services, including North East Asia (A3C), China-Australia Express (CAX), China-Australia (CA2), and MSC's Panda & Dragon services are expected to go blank during this week. Blank sailing involves canceled voyages, causing disruptions in cargo movement.
- Bunching- A3N/A1X:Bunching is anticipated for A3N and A1X services, further complicating scheduling and logistics.
Week 41: More Blanks, Bunching & Omissions
Week 41 continues the trend of schedule interruptions, with:
- Blank Services:North East Asia (A3N), North East Asia (A3S), Asia-Australia (AAs), and China-Australia (CAT) services are expected to be blanked, meaning they won't be operating during this period.
- Bunching - Thailand-Fremantle Express (TFX):The trend of "bunching" extends to the TFX service, leading to potential delays and congestion.
- Service Omission - CAT (EMC/YML/SNL/HPL): The first notable omission comes from the CAT alliance, which includes EMC, YML, SNL, and HPL. In Week 41, this alliance will omit several crucial ports, including Shekou (SHK), Shanghai (SHA) and Ningbo (NGB).
- Service Omission - CA2 (SLS): The China-Australia (CA2) service, operated by SLS, will also see an omission in Week 41. Ports like Qingdao (TAO), Shanghai (SHA), and Shekou (SHK) will not be part of the service during this week.
- Service Omission - AUN (ONE/MSK): Week 41 brings another omission, this time from the Australia North East Asia (AUN) service, which includes ONE and MSK. Ports like Qingdao (TAO), Ningbo (NGB), Yantian (YTN), and Shanghai (SHA) are excluded during this week, affecting cargo schedules and logistics planning.
- Service Omission - A3S (CMA/COSCO/OOCL/PIL): Week 41 brings an omission for the North East Asia (A3S) service, operated by CMA, COSCO, OOCL, and PIL. Ports like Xiamen (XMN) and Shekou (SHK) will not be part of the service during this week, potentially affecting cargo movements in the region.
- Service Omission - A3C (OOCL, COSCO, ANL, PIL): North East Asia (A3C) service, involving carriers OOCL, COSCO, ANL, and PIL, will omit Shanghai (SHA) and Ningbo (NGB).
- Service Omission - CAX (GSL): The China-Australia (CAX) service by GSL will face double omissions in Week 41 and Week 42. Ningbo (NGB) and Shenzhen (SZX) will not be served during these weeks.
Week 42: A Bunching & Omissions Encore
As the holiday season draws to a close, Week 42 will witness:
- Bunching - A1X/CAX/Panda:The month ends with bunching for A1X, CAX, and Panda services, adding another layer of complexity to cargo scheduling.
- Service Omission - CAX (GSL): The China-Australia (CAX) service by GSL will face double omissions in Week 41 and Week 42. Ningbo (NGB) and Shenzhen (SZX) will not be served during these weeks.
Service Omission - CAE/NEAX (EMC/ONE/HMM): Week 42 brings an omission for the China-Australia (CAE) & North East Asia (NEAX) service, involving carriers EMC, ONE, and HMM. Yantian (YTN), a significant port, will not be included in this week's service.
CA2 Consortium Contract Expiration - March 24
As the global shipping industry continues to navigate a complex and ever-changing landscape, one topic has captured the attention of industry players and experts alike: the China Australia Service (CA2) Consortium.
This consortium's existing contract is on the verge of expiration, with the deadline set for March 24. The uncertainty surrounding the future of the CA2 Consortium has triggered discussions and speculations within the maritime community. Industry stakeholders are keenly interested in whether this influential consortium will choose to extend its operations beyond this pivotal date. The implications of this decision are far-reaching and have the potential to impact the dynamics of the global shipping market significantly.
In the midst of this uncertainty, SILA remains dedicated to providing the latest updates, ensuring that you stay well-informed and prepared to navigate the intricacies of the shipping and logistics industry. Keep a close watch as we continue to monitor developments surrounding the CA2 Consortium's contract expiration.
While China's National holiday is a time of celebration, it also poses unique challenges for the shipping and logistics industry. With schedule changes, omissions, blank sailings, and bunching becoming the norm for the next few weeks, adaptability and proactive planning will be key to ensuring smooth operations in this dynamic environment. As the holiday season unfolds, stakeholders in the China market must stay vigilant and agile to steer their businesses through these turbulent waters.
Flexibility and proactive decision-making will be essential to navigate the complexities of the global shipping landscape in the weeks ahead. By keeping a watchful eye on trends and a readiness to embrace innovation, together we can navigate the seas of change and chart a course toward a more resilient and prosperous future.
Please reach out to our dedicated representatives for guidance and solutions that cater to your specific requirements and thank you for entrusting us with your shipping needs.
SILA Global Commercial Team
CCO - jason@sila.net.au | BDM - johann@sila.net.au | BDM - monowar@sila.net.au
T: (+61) 02 9556 4866 | E: sales@silanet.au
IFCBAA: US Government Potential Shut Down Draws Near
Dear Valued Clients & Partners,
IFCBAA has overnight been involved in communications with the NCBFAA (National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America) on this issue.
Both organisations have reciprocal organisation membership with each other, on behalf of their respective members.
Given the now high likelihood of a US Government shutdown this Sunday night (US ET), NCBFAA has issued a joint industry statement, which advocates for all US government agencies involved in international trade to remain open.
At this stage, it appears that an essential services policy may see a number of main border clearance processes in the US remain open, however the full scope of that situation applying across all relevant government agencies involved in international trade remains unclear, with high risks of stoppages and ongoing delays, being likely
Unless a surprise solution is agreed upon and rushed through today (Friday) US ET, then the NCBFAA is of the view that this impasse could possibly take several weeks for a resolution to be achieved.
This raises high prospects of significant disruption and delays being experienced in the servicing of cargo at major ports, airports and related precinct areas throughout the US from Sunday night.
IFCBAA members would be well advised to inform their customers, agents and offices that have shipments in progress to and from the US at this time, of prospective delays and potential knock-on effects in areas such as demurrage.
The last time this occurred, the USITC HTS website went down, the NCBFAA have downloaded a current version at this time of this and firewalled it, which can be accessed through this link https://hts.usitc.gov/ .
More detailed information on the current situation is available on a industry podcast that was recorded yesterday in the US, that included commentary from Megan Montgomery, Executive Vice President of NCBFAA. https://gtc.trade/simply-trade-podcast/
This warning for members is based on what is known at this stage, on a worst case scenario heading into this coming weekend.
The statement from NCBFAA is contained in the below link: Joint Trade Industry Statement Regarding a Potential Government Shut Down on October 1st.pdf (informz.net)
Scott Carson
CEO
If you have any questions or concerns, kindly reach out to our dedicated sales team.
Thank you,
SILA Global
Upcoming Public Holidays - Australia
Dear Valued Partners & Clients,
Kindly take note of the upcoming public holidays in Australia.
SILA Global will be operating with limited staff on these days however most transport companies and container/freight depots will be closed.
AFL Grand Final - Friday 29 September - Victoria
Labour Day - Monday 2 October - Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales
King's Birthday - Monday 2 October - Queensland, South Australia
Public holidays (australia.gov.au)
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to one of our dedicated team.
- SILA Imports - imports@sila.net.au
- SILA Exports - exports@sila.net.au
- SILA Sales - sales@sila.net.au
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Insight - September 2023
Blanked sailings are now the norm
Blanked Asia-Europe sailings have become expected in liner operators' routines, according to Alphaliner's latest report today (16 August).
Record newbuilding deliveries have made operators reduce sailings to manage capacity and THE Alliance has the largest percentage of skipped schedules.
THE Alliance has blanked just over 10 of its sailings, translating to nearly 20% of sailings that have been skipped. In comparison, the OCEAN Alliance has skipped 10 of its 90-odd voyages, amounting to a suspension rate of 10%.
Skipping sailings was initially a way to reduce capacity in times of low cargo demand. During the Covid-19 pandemic, missed sailings were the consequence of port congestion with ships arriving too late for a new round voyage. Now with the influx of new tonnage and a sufficient amount of available ships, blanked sailings have become common practice for a different reason. Even with ONE receiving new ships, THE Alliance had the largest percentage of skipped sailings in June and July.
The 2M agreement of MSC and Maersk blanked only three China-Europe trips, or 4% of sailings, in the same period. That said, MSC has struggled to fill slots on its standalone weekly Swan service that connects Asia to North Europe and Russia.
Last week, MSC implemented an eleventh-hour void sailing affecting the 14,000 TEU MSC Deila.
Alphaliner said, "Limiting capacity should remove some pressure on spot freight rates."
When the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) closed on 11 August, Asia-North Europe rates went dipped to US$926/TEU, while Asia-Mediterranean rates went down to US$1,507/TEU.
Although Transpacific rates edged up to US$2,017/FEU for Asia-US West Coast and US$3,071/FEU for Asia-US East Coast, Linerlytica said these could come under pressure, as cargo volumes remain lower year-on-year and the Panama canal draught restrictions have had limited impact since priority passage is granted to liner services.
Read the full press release here
**SOURCE, Container News, By Martina LI 16/08/2023
DP World to boost container-handling capacity by year-end as demand rises
DP World to boost container-handling capacity by year-end as demand rises
Global ports operator DP World plans to add about three million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) of container-handling capacity by the end of the year to help meet growing demand in key trade markets.
The company, which currently manages approximately 9 per cent of the world’s handling capacity and is among the top five global ports operators, said the addition will take its total gross capacity to 93.6 million TEUs.
Its medium-term target is to reach 100 million TEUs per year, depending on demand, Tiemen Meester, chief operating officer of ports and terminals at DP World, said in a statement on Tuesday.
"We have to take a longer-term view of global economics, looking at how demand will change and how we can meet it in the most efficient way," Mr Meester said.
The capacity additions to be completed this year in key markets include Caucedo (Dominican Republic) with an additional 1.2 million TEUs, Yarimca (Turkey) with an additional 579,000 TEUs, Sokhna (Egypt) with an additional 500,000 TEUs and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) with an added 200,000 TEUs.
Other markets include Callao in Peru and Saigon in Vietnam with another 200,000 TEUs. Terminals in Luanda, Dakar, Berbera and Vancouver will each get an additional capacity of 100,000 TEUs.
The expansion plan comes as global container throughput is forecast to grow to 932 million TEUs by 2025, up from 858 million TEUs in 2021, according to maritime research and consulting services firm Drewry.
"The firm’s capacity expansion plans come at a vital time with inflation, increased cost of living and geopolitical uncertainties causing concern about global trade and fuelling demand for faster, more resilient supply chain solutions," DP World said.
Read the full article here
**SOURCE, The National, By Deena Kamel 15/08/2023
China’s heavy-duty truck industry: The road ahead
Premiumization, electrification, autonomous driving, and a value pool shift to solutions and services will shape the future of heavy-duty trucks in China.
Over the past decade, China has experienced an infrastructure boom and mushrooming demand for road transportation, leading to rapid growth of the heavy-duty-truck (HDT) market. Sales of HDTs in China grew from 600,000 vehicles in 2015 to a peak of 1.6 million in 2020. Then, in 2022, the HDT market in China went into a slump; a regional economic slowdown, COVID-19 lockdowns, and the fact that many customers prepurchased HDTs in 2020 and 2021 resulted in a sales volume of only 700,000 vehicles in 2022.
This slump is unlikely to be permanent. Given the size and resilience of the country’s economy, we expect the Chinese HDT industry to rebound and retain a significant and stable commercial base. That said, the rapid development of the past decade will be difficult to replicate.
As of 2022, the top five participants in China’s HDT market held more than 80 percent of the market—and the industry is becoming more concentrated. As demand normalizes after the boom, the established leaders will likely maintain their positions at the top of the market, but competitors from other geographies and adjacent sectors—including, for example, OEMs that formerly specialized in electric passenger vehicles—are likely to continue to jostle for position. Another example is that some global OEMs are already investing in the market, localizing their manufacturing by forming or acquiring Chinese companies to reduce costs and meet specific needs of local customers.
Read the full article here
**SOURCE, McKinsey & Company, 09/08/2023
Panama Canal Update: Restrictions to Last 10 Months
In a significant maritime development, the Panama Canal Authority has issued a warning that stringent water-conserving measures will remain enforced for the next 10 months, impacting global shipping operations. This restriction comes as a response to an unprecedented drought coupled with the influence of the El Niño weather phenomenon.
Key Developments:
- The Panama Canal Authority has appealed to global shipping organizations to collaborate on sharing transit plans, particularly at this vital maritime chokepoint.
- In response to adverse weather conditions, administrators at the Panama Canal have implemented several measures:
- Draft restrictions for ships transiting neopanamax locks have been reduced by 2 meters.
- Daily transits have been curtailed by 20%, allowing only 32 vessels per day, leading to a substantial backup of ships at both ends of the canal.
- The current tally of ships awaiting transit stands at 129, down from a peak of 165 earlier this month, but still notably higher than the average, marking a 43% increase.
- The deputy administrator of the Panama Canal, Ilya Espino, confirmed to Reuters that these restrictions are set to persist for the next 10 months, spanning throughout the first half of the upcoming year.
- Container services and cruise itineraries, which often involve long advance bookings, will feel the impact differently from bulk sectors, where the impact is more immediate and unplanned.
- For larger containerships facing draft restrictions, approximately 2,500 TEUs of space cannot be utilized, resulting in a maximum headhaul utilization of 84%. Options like re-routing via the Suez Canal are being considered.
- Smaller containerships, still able to pass fully laden, are exploring alternatives like backhaul returns to Asia via the Suez or the Cape, even though these routes entail longer distances and times.
- The Panama Canal Authority and industry players such as the World Shipping Council, INTERTANKO, INTERCARGO, and BIMCO could potentially collaborate to optimize resource utilization in the short and medium term.
- Despite these developments, the impact on container spot rates over the past two weeks has been relatively muted. However, experts suggest that prolonged restrictions may lead to increased freight rates and potential cargo diversions.
Industry Insights:
- Niels Rasmussen, Chief Shipping Analyst at BIMCO, emphasized that extended restrictions could result in further freight rate hikes and the possibility of cargo redirection to US West Coast ports via rail.
- Notably, the predicament in Central America is unlikely to have a significant impact on global supply chains, as the container trade is already grappling with excess ship capacity. Read more here & here
AUSTRALIAN TRUSTED TRADER
Australian Trusted Trader reduces red tape for Trusted Traders at the border, improves certainty in export markets, and expedites the flow of their cargo in and out of Australia, which means faster access to market.
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ministered by Home Affairs with the Australian Border Force, Trusted Trader is free and accredits Australian businesses with compliant trade practices and a secure supply chain. Once accredited, businesses have access to a growing range of benefits that simplify their customs processes.
SILA Global is an Australian Trusted Trader (ATT) and we encourage our clients to explore the benefits of being an ATT. If you would like to discuss this further or be guided through the process, our in-house customs broker, Nic Demo, is happy to help!
Nicoll Demo
nicoll@sila.net.au
(07) 3908 1622
ANTI-DUMPING COMMISSION
Find goods currently subject to measures in the
dumping commodity register (DCR)
Notable updates - Steel products:
Wind towers
615 - Review - China
Steel reinforcing bar
610 - Continuation - Greece, Indonesia, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand
Steel Pallet Racking
617 - Continuation - China, Malaysia
Aluminium zinc coated steel
630 – Accelerated Review – Korea
Steel pallet racking
617 – Continuation – China, Malaysia
Zinc coated (galvanised) steel
631 – Accelerated Review – Korea
Market Update - September
Greetings from SILA Global!
As we step into the month of September, we are bracing for the peak season ahead!
At present, rates remain 'stable' but carriers continue to push for a hefty GRI and we can expect carriers to continue to use blank sailings as a tactic to push prices up by limiting space to increase supply.
Now is the time to start planning your shipments, allowing ample time for adjustments and potential delays, exploring multiple transportation options, and leveraging technology solutions that provide real-time tracking and visibility into your cargo's journey. Reach out to your SILA Sales Representative and have a chat about your options and our innovative solutions, like SV3, to ensure you are prepared!
China Shipping Update: ZIM and MSC Collaboration
- The anticipated merging of ZIM's China Australia Express (CAX) service and MSC's Panada services is undergoing a slight delay due to vessel registration processes with the Australian (AU) port authority. As of the latest information, the commencement is expected to take place in early to mid-October. Read more here.
- Both ZIM and MSC will be deploying a combined total of seven vessels for this collaboration. The itinerary for this newly enhanced Panada service will closely resemble the existing one.
- ZIM is set to suspend its current Thailand Fremantle Express (TFX) service. South China cargo will be redirected to Panada, while South East Asia (SEA) cargo will be routed to Singapore and connected to the Kiwi service or Capricorn service of MSC.
- By approximately week 37/38, an upgrade in vessel size to around 5000 TEUs is planned for the MSC's Panada service.
- ZIM, Hapag Lloyd, and TS Lines will utilize New Zealand Express (NZE) service to effectively serve New Zealand (NZ).
Space Supply and Scheduling
- ZIM's China Australia Express (CAX) service will experience a blank sailing in week 37 (10/9 to 16/9).
- The space supply for this month will vary due to rescheduling caused by recent typhoons.
- September's space supply will be ample, except for week 38 (17/9 to 23/9) due to missing North East Asia (A3N) service in Qingdao, North East Asia Express (NEAX) service in Ningbo & Shenzhen, and ZIM's China Australia Express (CAX) service in Shenzhen. This may lead to a reduced supply in that specific week and potentially increase the likelihood of another full General Rate Increase (GRI) in the 2nd half of September (2H09).
GRI and Rate Updates
- In the first half of September (1H09), all carriers initiated a General Rate Increase (GRI) of approximately USD 150/TEU.
- For the second half of September (2H09), A3 carriers and PIL have already announced another GRI of USD 150/TEU, effective from 15th September.
- Carriers are actively pursuing rate increases in preparation for potential rate reductions in the first half of October (1H10), coinciding with China's Golden Week holiday
- Starting on September 15th, ANL is set to initiate a Rate Restoration program. This program will involve charges of USD 100 for 20’ dry/reefer containers and USD 200 for 40’ dry/reefer containers, applicable to all shipments originating from South East Asia, India Sub Continent, and the Middle East heading to the main ports of Australia. Read more here.
Seasonal measures for Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB)
We bring to your attention the significant BMSB (Brown Marmorated Stink Bug) seasonal measures applicable to specific goods originating in or shipped from countries designated as target risk countries. These measures encompass shipments dispatched between 1 September and 30 April (inclusive) and also encompass vessels that dock, load or tranship from these countries within the same period.
Key Points to Note:
- Scope of Application: The BMSB seasonal measures are to be applied to a defined set of goods that are either manufactured in or dispatched from target risk countries.
- Timeframe: The measures pertain to goods shipped during the period from 1 September to 30 April.
- Vessel Inclusion: Vessels that berth, load, or undertake transshipment activities from target risk countries within the specified period are also subject to these measures.
Important Clarification:
- The date recorded as "shipped-on-board," as indicated on the Ocean Bill of Lading, is the determining factor in ascertaining when goods have been shipped. Please note that "gate in" dates and times will not be considered valid for establishing the shipping date.These measures are implemented to address the potential risks associated with the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug and to ensure the protection of our environment and agricultural industry.
Please reach out to our dedicated representatives for guidance and solutions that cater to your specific requirements and thank you for entrusting us with your shipping needs.
SILA Global Commercial Team
CCO - jason@sila.net.au
BDM - johann@sila.net.au
BDM - monowar@sila.net.au
T: (+61) 02 9556 4866
Insight - August 2023
VICT Container VGM Check Weighing – Weight Discrepancy Fee
Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA) released an update on the VICT Weight Discrepancy Fee that has been in place since 1st June 2023.
Since 1 June 2023, Victoria International Container Terminal (VICT) at Webb Dock, Melbourne has been applying a VGM Weight Discrepancy Fee for full import and export containers determined to have a +/- one tonne variance from the container’s Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declared to and documented by the shipping line.
VICT has calibrated the load cells attached to the “spreaders” on its Automated Stacking Cranes (ASCs) to meet Australia’s weight measurement standards. Effectively therefore, VICT weighs every container passing through the container terminal.
In consultation with VICT, CTAA has explored the ramifications of the check weighing processes now in place at VICT and the application of the VGM Weight Discrepancy Fee.
In the short time that the VGM Weight Discrepancy Fee process has been in place at VICT:
- 7% of full import containers have recorded a variance of +/- one tonne from the declared VGM;
- 3% of full export containers have recorded a variance of +/- one tonne from the declared VGM
Some containers have been found to have larger variances than one tonne. For example, 7% of the containers found to have a variance have recorded a variance greater than five tonnes from the declared VGM.
In an Update on the issues, we have suggested what steps forwarders, importers and exporters should take to ensure more accurate declarations of Verified Gross Mass (VGM) are made at the port of origin (for imports), and at Australian ports for exports, to avoid Weight Discrepancy Fee “penalties” at VICT or at other container terminals in Australia.
The Impact of AI on the Logistics Industry
Artificial Intelligence is a next-level technology that understands, learns, and replicates human activity and produces efficiency more than a human.
An MHI study projected that the pace of AI growth is predicted to rise from 14% to 73% over the next 5 years. Recently AI has been gaining traction in the logistics industry. Thanks to AI abilities, there are no domains that can escape from it.
Digitalization is now essential for any domain with changing customer demands. In that, logistics is not an exception, it is indeed for them to smooth the operations. Along with digitalization, integrating machine learning and AI could bring automated operations and error-free supply management.
Here are a few impacts that AI has on the logistics industry:-
- Predictive Analysis
- Computer Vision
- Speeding the Delivery
- Big Data
- Influence on Costs
- Improved Client Experience
- Enhanced Safety
AI has a lot of use cases in the logistics industry. The tech is having a holistic approach to doing everything in logistics from production to fast shipment and safe delivery. With these significant impacts, there is no doubt that AI influence in logistics will drive revolutionary growth in the upcoming decades with cutting-edge advancements. Thereby driving efficiency and profitability.
Reach out to your SILA Sales representative today or sales@sila.net.au to learn how SILA's visual platforms (SV3) can improve your supply chain
ABF Commissioner Michael Outram APM Speech to the Trans-Tasman Business Circle
Investing in the border as a strategic asset
What do I mean when I call the border a strategic asset?
Well, in good times, you can call these times the good times now, the border is of course an economic asset that should be used to leverage economic growth and productivity through trade and travel primarily. It can generate more money of course, through increased productivity and migration.
In times of crisis, the border is an asset that can protect our economic and national security. And border settings should be able to be adjusted by Government, in cooperation with industry, in a really fast and agile and nimble way to guard against risks, harness opportunities and enhance our overall resilience. And that did not happen in the pandemic, we weren't able to do it because we're still on a paper based systems.
The border has to be an efficient mechanism to ensure our economic security, protect our supply chains, of course, and protect our community during a crisis. And we all know from the pandemic, the thing about crises is we don't know when they're coming. But we know we have to prepare for more.
So I want to create a broader policy discussion around the border, and the way we look at it, more border as a system – not just a series of lines on a map or entry or exit points or new ports or new airports, cargo containers, passport checks. These shouldn't be thought of in a policy sense at all as separate or siloed – all the domains or functions that industry and governments sometimes think in terms of. The whole thing's interconnected and needs to be thought on in those terms, as being an interconnected system.
Read the Commissioners full speech here
AUSTRALIAN TRUSTED TRADER
Australian Trusted Trader reduces red tape for Trusted Traders at the border, improves certainty in export markets, and expedites the flow of their cargo in and out of Australia, which means faster access to market.
Administered by Home Affairs with the Australian Border Force, Trusted Trader is free and accredits Australian businesses with compliant trade practices and a secure supply chain. Once accredited, businesses have access to a growing range of benefits that simplify their customs processes.
SILA Global is an Australian Trusted Trader (ATT) and we encourage our clients to explore the benefits of being an ATT. If you would like to discuss this further or be guided through the process, our in-house customs broker, Nic Demo, is happy to help!
Nicoll Demo
nicoll@sila.net.au
(07) 3908 1622
AMAZON AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES ROBOTICS FULFILMENT CENTRE FOR MELBOURNE
New robotics centre to create around 2,000 jobs, working alongside cutting-edge technology
Around 2,000 additional jobs will be created during construction and fit out of the building
Amazon Australia announced plans to open its second Amazon Robotics fulfilment centre (FC) at the AustralianSuper owned Craigieburn Logistics Estate, in Craigieburn, northern Melbourne. Targeting completion in 2025, the new site will house up to 25 million of the smaller items that are sold on Amazon.com.au. Amazon Australia’s investment in the site continues the company’s commitment to Australia, boosting employment opportunities and improving selection and delivery promise for customers around the country.
It will create around 2,000 local jobs once fully operational, with the opportunity to work alongside advanced robotics. Excavation works have begun on the site which is being developed by LOGOS. It is expected the construction and fit out of the state-of-the-art facility will create an additional 2,000 jobs for the area. Once open, the site will offer a diverse range of job opportunities from part time to full time, in a high-tech, industry-leading workplace. Jobs will range from highly skilled roles like IT, HR and engineering, to entry level roles with on-the-job training. The majority of jobs will be permanent full-time roles, offering exciting career opportunities, competitive pay and benefits such as subsidised healthcare and up to 20 weeks paid parental leave.
The fulfilment centre will span around 209,000 square metres across four levels – that’s equivalent to 11 Melbourne Cricket Grounds, or five times the size of Federation Square, making it the largest warehouse ever built in Australia (beating Amazon’s Western Sydney robotics site by 9,000 sqm). The construction of this second robotics site follows the successful launch of Amazon Australia’s first robotics site in Western Sydney in 2022, which doubled the company’s operational footprint.
Read the full Amazon Notice here
ANTI-DUMPING NOTICE NO 2023/041
Certain Hollow Structural Sections exported to Australia from countries subject to Anti-Dumping Measures
Findings of Exemption Inquiry No. 0093
2023-24 BMSB Seasonal Measures
Dear Valued Clients,
DAFF has created a BMSB Frequently Asked Questions webpage to help guide us through this coming BMSB season.
BMSB seasonal measures will apply to targeted goods manufactured in or shipped from target risk countries, that have been shipped between 1 September and 30 April (inclusive), and to vessels that berth, load, or tranship from target risk countries within the same period.
Note: The shipped-on-board date, as indicated on the Ocean Bill of Lading, is the date used to determine when goods have been shipped. “Gate in” dates and times will not be accepted to determine when goods are shipped.
We continuously review the measures throughout the season and may make necessary adjustments based on detections of BMSB and changes in the risk pathways.
Important things to note this season:-
- 'Containerised' means sealed 6-sided – OT (Open Tops) do not fall under this category.
- It is preferred that shipments from BMSB Target risk countries/goods are treated offshore, rather than onshore to prevent avoidable delays and additional expenses.
- Break Bulk, Flat Racks & OTs must be treated OFF shore in all instances and cannot/will not be approved to be treated onshore during BMSB season. These consignments will be ordered for re-export by DAFF at the Importer/Owners' expense.
- The offshore BMSB Treatment Provider web page has been updated for easier reference – we encourage our clients to please check this list for the most up-to-date details regarding approved offshore treatment providers.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our in-house customs broker, Nicoll Demo (+61) 07 3908 1690.
Thank you - SILA Global Team
QLD Ekka Public Holiday
Dear Valued Clients,
Wednesday, 16th August 2023 is a Public Holiday in Queensland for the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka).
SILA Global's head office in Brisbane will be open with 'skeleton staff' on this day and we appreciate your patience during this time.
Important things to note:
- Most Port of Brisbane terminals will still be operating during this time and free time will be 'per usual'.
- Patrick FI has advised the Terminal will not be opening for R&D operations and will close at 2130hrs Tuesday 15th August and re-open 0600hrs Thursday 17th August.
- Empty parks will be closed so empty containers cannot be de-hired on this day and detention-free days will be 'per usual'.
- Cargolink has advised they will be closed with no staff onsite.
- Most transport carriers are closed however, if they are operating, they will be passing on a Public Holiday Surcharge if services are required on this day
If you have any questions or concerns, kindly contact your SILA Logistics Coordinator or imports@sila.net.au / exports@sila.net.au accordingly.
Thank you - SILA Global Team
Appointments to the International Trade Remedies Forum (ITRF)
Dear Valued Customs,
Please see the below notice released by Dr. Bradley Armstrong PSM, Commissioner of the Anti-Dumping Commission, seeking expressions of interest from organisations and businesses to be appointed as a member to the International Trade Remedies Forum (ITRF).
I, Dr Bradley Armstrong PSM, Commissioner of the Anti-Dumping Commission, am seeking expressions of interest from organisations and businesses to be appointed as a member to the International Trade Remedies Forum (ITRF). The current membership of the ITRF will expire on 31 December 2023.
The ITRF is a group of representatives from Australian manufacturers and producers, importers, unions and government agencies. It provides key users of the anti-dumping system the opportunity to advise government on how to improve anti-dumping legislation (Part XVB of the Customs Act 1901 and the Customs Tariff (Anti-Dumping) Act 1975).
The Minister for Industry and Science, The Hon. Ed Husic MP, appoints members for a period of up to 3 years based upon considerastion of my membership recommendations.
Further information on the ITRF, including meeting outcomes and current membership, is available at www.industry.gov.au/anti-dumping-commission/about-anti-dumpingcommission/international-trade-remedies-forum.
If you wish to be considered for appointment to the ITRF, please email ITRFSecretariat@adcommission.gov.au, providing an overview of your organisation, its membership or business structure and its interest in becoming an ITRF representative by COB Friday 25 August. Expressions of interest should not exceed 500 words.
Enquiries about this notice should be made to ITRFSecretariat@adcommission.gov.au.
Dr Bradley Armstrong PSM
Commissioner
Anti-Dumping Commission24 July 2023
Kind Regards,
SILA Global Pty Ltd