European Union Wants Conference Lines Banned
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The European Commission has decided to 'propose' banning liner shipping conferences and similar arrangements, in which shipping lines set rates for trade routes.
While the EC has decided to challenge the traditional shipping conference profile, it will address other forms of cooperation such as rate indexes and formulas for additional charges to the basic freight rates.
The 'Competition Commission of Singapore' recommended that the EC grant exemptions under the 'anti-cartel law' against liner conferences and agreements. If the exemptions are granted, this would essentially abolish shipping conferences on trade routes between EU states and anywhere else - including Singapore ? because the European anti-cartel law would apply to both imports and exports.
The Commission statement says: ''Repealing the exemption will benefit EU exporters by lowering transport prices while maintaining reliable services. This will enhance the competitiveness of EU industry.'
The exemption proposal will now be forwarded to the EU's Council of Ministers for adoption by a majority and to the European Parliament for consultation.
