The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has voted unanimously to allow the Pacific Ports Operational Improvements Agreement to become effective on April 17, 2015.
The agreement proposal was filed back in March by the West Coast Marine Terminal Operators Agreement (WCMTOA) and the Ocean Carrier Equipment Management Association (OCEMA).
The Pacific Ports Operational Improvements Agreement authorizes the parties to discuss, exchange information and reach agreement with respect to measures towards improving the efficiency of operations of West Coast port facilities, reducing congestion at such facilities, inspection, safety and efficient use of equipment, and related port operational matters.
It also authorizes the parties to agree on rules, regulations, practices and terms and conditions relating to the foregoing matters.
The Commission’s review included evaluation of information received from the agreement parties in response to questions raised by staff and Commissioners during the review period; removal of agreement authority to address Commission concerns, including proposed authority to impose fees and charges on third parties; as well as consideration of public comments submitted on the Agreement.
“Given the exigent circumstances related to congestion, this Agreement’s effectiveness is timely. Through this Agreement, the parties seek to address issues that could help to alleviate the congestion that is plaguing US Pacific Coast ports,” said FMC Chairman Mario Cordero.
”While the agreement has great potential to achieve this goal, the Commission will closely monitor the activities of the agreement to identify emerging 6(g) concerns and act quickly should it become necessary. As the primary gateways for trade between the US and Asia, the ports along the US Pacific Coast play an important role in ensuring the efficient flow of goods in and out of the United States.”