FMC Fact Findings 'Taking Years,' Rarely Resulting in Enforcements, Florida Customs Group Says
Large ocean carriers are continuing to use their influence to cause “record high freight rates” for American shipping companies, the Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association said in a letter to the Federal Maritime Commission this month. The association also said that carriers are “frequently” gathering customer information “through their [ocean transportation intermediary] client and then engage in direct competition,” which violates the Shipping Act. “The negative economic impact is real for both OTIs and shippers alike,” the FCBFA said.
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The association acknowledged that the FMC has been “observing contentious and statutorily prohibited practices” by carriers, including through its fact-finding missions (see 2106150038 and 2105050057), but the group said more needs to be done. “Unfortunately, these fact findings are taking years to complete and have rarely resulted in any fines, new regulations, or overall enforcement,” the letter said.