Australian shippers and forwarders have reacted with disappointment to the country's competition regulators giving the green light to DP World Australia's takeover of container haulage firm Silk Logistics.

"Despite our strong opposition, some industry bodies chose to soften the stance, suggesting an undertaking would be sufficient," said FTA director Paul Zalai.

"This lack of a united industry front may have given the regulator an excuse to sidestep the issue". "Even though it acknowledged the deal would reduce competition, it failed to act. The result? A green light for stevedores and global shipping lines to push ahead with their vertical integration ambitions," Mr Zalai added.

READ MORE (picture credit The Loadstar / DP World)

The Loadstar - Opposition to ACCC green light for DP World takeover of Silk Logistics