Shippers’ Council defends WACT tariff adjustment takeoff, says it’s legitimate, meets industry standards

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

“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.

“APFFLON’s Non-Participation in the Sensitization Programme: The claim by APFFLON 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 stakeholders engagement process was due to their own non-compliance with regulatory requirements and not an act of exclusion by WACT.

“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council 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. We urge stakeholders to engage constructively and in accordance with regulatory frameworks to enhance efficiency in our port operations.”