ATN - Shift in import compliance approach as container chaos looms

Now Freight and Trade Alliance/Australian Peak Shippers Association (FTA/APSA) is saying those bearing much of the brunt are withdrawing their exposure to risks as liquidity dries up.

"Customs brokers are no longer accepting the cash-flow imposition of making up front import statutory charge payments and recouping costs from importers on a disbursement basis," FTA director Paul Zalai says.

"The 'new normal' leaves importers to either make up front payments to customs brokers or to register via the Integrated Cargo System [ICS] to make direct EFT payments of import statutory charges.

"This is already generating early warning signs that containers may become stranded at our wharves, with importers struggling with insufficient cash flow to clear goods into home consumption."