Newsletters

As of the end of August both the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Transport Canada have implemented stricter air cargo security measures, affecting Europe- and CIS-based shippers. These sudden regulatory shifts have raised significant concerns with freight forwarders prompting a strong response from CLECAT.

The new security requirements, particularly the U.S.'s Air Cargo Advanced Screening and Transport Canada’s latest mandates, were introduced with minimal warning, creating operational disruptions for air cargo shippers. The Emergency Amendments require that all cargo from 55 largely European countries be tendered by known shippers or freight forwarders who have an establish business relations with shippers, placing an embargo on uncompliant shipments. In addition, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued enhancements to the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) program, mandating additional data elements in the ACAS filing, the implementation of which has proven to be complex.

Following the announcement of the directive by the TSA in mid-August, affected carriers like Korean Air, this carrier placed an embargo on European and CIS shipments bound for the U.S. Korean Air stated that this decision was due to the complexities of meeting the new TSA regulations, which are set to remain in place at least until November 2024.

CLECAT has voiced concerns over the logistical challenges of complying with these enhanced security directives and over the lack of communication and the abrupt manner in which these changes were introduced. According to CLECAT, the new security requirements have placed unnecessary strain on the air cargo sector, particularly on freight forwarders who manage a substantial portion of international shipments.  CLECAT is calling for greater engagement between regulatory authorities and economic operators (EOs). The association stresses the importance of collaboration to ensure that future security measures are not only practical but also implemented in a manner that minimizes disruptions to global trade. Furthermore, CLECAT is pushing for the harmonization of data requirements and the global standardization of Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) programs. This would streamline operations for cargo operators dealing with multiple regulatory regimes across different markets.

CLECAT's call for harmonization and better communication reflects its commitment to ensuring that security measures protect both industry interests and global supply chains. As stricter security regulations continue to be rolled out, it is crucial for industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and governments to work together to strike the right balance between safety and operational feasibility.