The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has clarified that the tariff review approval issued to the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in 2021 and 2023 aligns with industry standards and prevailing economic realities.
The management of NSC made this known in a statement made available to Thelensng on Tuesday, following a recent publication making rounds on social media concerning the tariff review approval.
It explained that the tariff increment implemented by WACT was duly reviewed and approved by the NSC following a rigorous assessment processes to ensure that the rates remain within the acceptable industry benchmark.
The Council also noted that it consulted with registered clearing agents on the issue and the discussions led to a mutual phased implementation agreement.
The statement partly read: “As the economic regulator of the port sector, the Council considers it necessary to set the record straight and provide clarifications to avoid any misinformation.
“Council’s Approval Within Industry Benchmark: The tariff increment implemented by WACT was duly reviewed and approved by the NSC. The review was conducted following rigorous assessment processes to ensure that the rates remain within the acceptable industry benchmark and align
with prevailing economic realities. It is pertinent to note that the NSC, in its regulatory capacity, ensures that all approved tariff adjustments are fair, justifiable, and sustainable for both service providers and port users.
“Consultation with Registered Clearing Agents: According to WACT, prior to the implementation of the new tariff structure, WACT engaged extensively with the leadership of registered clearing agents in Onne, including the
Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the
Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (ARFFN), and the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (CMD). The discussions led to a mutual agreement that the implementation would be phased to ease the impact on port users.
“Phased Implementation Agreement: In adherence to this agreement, WACT initially implemented first phase of the tariff increment, which was accepted
by the service users. Following due consultations and considerations, the final phase of the agreed increment was scheduled for implementation after a one-month and two-week notice period given to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and adequate preparation”.
Commenting on the non-participation of APFFLON in the sensitization programme, the Council stated that the claim by the association is misleading.
“According to WACT, APFFLON has, for two years, failed to obtain an introductory letter from the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), which is a prerequisite for recognition as an agent. As such, their inability to participate in the stakeholder engagement process was due to their own non-compliance with regulatory
requirements and not an act of exclusion by WACT”, the statement added.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council stated that it remains committed to its mandate of ensuring fair and competitive practices in the port sector, while balancing the interests of terminal operators and port users.
The NSC further urged stakeholders to engage constructively and in accordance with regulatory frameworks to enhance efficiency in port operations.
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