THE Hongkong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics (HAFFA) chairman Brian Wu has expressed satisfaction for the cooperation and supportive approach taken by government and industry partners in maintaining the competitiveness of an important segment of Hong Kong's economy
THE Hongkong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics (HAFFA) chairman Brian Wu has expressed satisfaction for the cooperation and supportive approach taken by government and industry partners in maintaining the competitiveness of an important segment of Hong Kong's economy. Speaking at the recent annual HAFFA Spring Dinner, Mr Wu acknowledged while Hong Kong experienced a modest increase in air freight of 3.7 per cent during 2018, a downturn of 5.7 per cent in seaport container throughput indicates challenging times ahead.
However, Mr Wu took the opportunity to highlight the association's vigorous and proactive approach to tackling the issues facing the industry while at the same time supporting its members in implementing necessary change in order to ensure its future.
During a busy 12 months, HAFFA organised a Security Forum for members and attended strategy meetings with government and industry bodies, conducted surveys, successfully negotiated preferential commercial benefits for members, and represented the industry both at home and abroad.
Key topics highlighted by the HAFFA chairman included the new ICAO policy direction and resulting changes to the Regulated Agent Regime, an issue which continues to present a number of key challenges for the industry.
In addition to clarifying the complex details of the policy and their implications for its members, HAFFA organised a new CAD-recognised training programme which incorporated both Regulated Agent Regime (RAR) and Regulated Air Cargo Screening Facility (RACSF) requirements at the same time.
To help alleviate the substantial financial burden resulting from the new regulations, HAFFA liaised with numerous x-ray equipment and screener service providers to seek cost-effective solutions and substantial discounts for its members.
To communicate members' concerns on an on-going basis in areas such as RACSF applications, possible financial support, common screening facilities, the Known Consignor (KC) scheme and secure road transportation, HAFFA actively shared views on the Aircargo Security Task Force chaired by Frankie Yick.
In closing, Mr Wu reiterated other controversial issues remain, and HAFFA will continue to collect views from members and strengthen its role as a bridge between government, trade bodies and the association.
The evening was attended the Secretary for Transport and Housing Frank Chan; Legislative Council Member for Transport, Frankie Yick; Commissioner of Customs & Excise, Hermes Tang; Director-General of Civil Aviation, Simon Li and Airport Authority Hong Kong CEO, Fred Lam.
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