Freight statement needs 'independent authority'

GROUPAGE
OPERATOR Export Consolidation Services has called on the SA Association of Freight Forwarders to intervene on behalf of its members following the recent appointment by the Tanzanian Central Freight Bureau (TCFB) of a clearing and forwarding agent to issue freight statements and monitor and control cargo entering Tanzania.
ECS's Durban-based m.d. Jay Maharaj believes SAAFF should take up the matter with the Tanzanian high commissioner based in South Africa.
We believe that the appointment of a c&f agent by the TCFB is unfair to other agents, he told FTW.
Confidential client information is divulged to the appointed c&f agent when applying for the freight statement which could have severe impact, he told FTW.
It would be only fair to all parties if an independent body, for example the Chamber of Commerce, was appointed instead of a clearing and forwarding agent to issue the statement.
Another alternative would be for the Tanzanian authorities to adopt the FMC system used in the United States where freight rates are filed and controlled.