Myanmar has been criticised by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) over its latest amended cargo release policy.
In a letter addressed to the transport minister, the international association has urged Myanmar to reassess its policy.
According to Myanmar’s latest circular, cargo will be released directly to the local Shipping Agency Department (SAD) without proper consent from the shipping lines.
Another point highlighted by the ICS is that local surcharges that shipping companies can collect will be determined by the Myanmar government.
“ICS is very concerned that these amendments to the cargo collection and release policy in Myanmar contravene the spirit of customary international practices and may lead to considerable market distortion,” ICS wrote in its letter.
The shipping association added that the updated policy will bring confusion and will make shipping companies more vulnerable.
It has asked the Myanmar government to reassess the negative impact that this change in cargo release could have on the shipping industry.
