BIFAlink


News Desk


www.bifa.org Savannah Matheson, from Impress Communications, reviews some recent news that might impact on Members’ business


Global air freight demand growth continues, says IATA


IN THE AIR


Demand in global air freight markets, measured in freight tonne kilometres, grew 6.8% in February 2018 compared with the same period last year, according to IATA. However, protectionist risks remain.


The next planning phase for the Heathrow expansion is set to commence following the first round of the airport’s major community consultation.


ON THE OCEAN Drewry is forecasting healthy demand growth in the container shipping market in 2018 and 2019.


It expects demand growth to outpace the increase in the total fleet, resulting in a better supply- demand balance and higher freight rates and profits for carriers.


A Drewry survey of shipowners has found concerns over compliance and a general resignation about having to switch to more expensive low-sulphur fuel to meet the International Maritime Organization’s proposed 2020 bunker regulation.


The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) has identified significant gaps in safety measures in place for workers opening fumigated shipping containers, and has recommended that more be done to protect people.


OVERLAND At the first Transport for the North (TfN) Partnership Board, UK Rail Minister Jo Johnson has urged northern leaders to drive forward vital transport projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail.


From February 2019, lorries meeting the latest Euro VI emissions


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standards will be eligible for a 10% reduction in the cost of the Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) levy.


A further £100 million will be given to councils in England to help repair potholes and damage caused by recent weather and protect roads from future severe weather.


As part of the UK’s preparations for exiting the EU, the UK government will ratify the 1968 Vienna Convention on road traffic, and the Haulage Permits and Trailer Registration Bill will establish a new framework.


PORTSIDE The Port of Felixstowe has recently taken delivery of its first two remote control-led ship-to-shore gantry cranes, capable of working vessels with containers stowed 11 high and 24 wide on deck.


IN BUSINESS Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has announced the appointment of a group of experts to advise on the future of maritime industries, and work closely with industry contacts to ensure the UK stays at the forefront of global shipping.


Expolink, the employee whistle blowing service, says calls about UK transport and logistics firms are up 7%, with health and safety/environmental safety issues accounting for more than 15% of all reports – almost three times higher than the UK average.


Gazeley has announced the acquisition of a six-acre plot of land in London to speculatively develop the UK’s first three-storey logistics facility, which will be called G Park London Docklands.


May 2018


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