Freight conferences are likely to disappear from the European Union's liner trades within the next three years. While many shippers are gloating about the 'free-for-all' market that will ensue, the European Liner Affairs Association has submitted an alternative proposal, which will allow dialogue through a trade association. John Fossey spoke to protagonists on both sides of the fence. The European Commission (EC) has been reviewing Regulation 4056/86 for many years, and several months ago finally recommended that it should be repealed. While shippers are genuinely pleased about the situation, ocean carriers are fearful of a 'freight conference free' trading environment.
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