Service Update – All Modes
Information from all modes indicates that the Canadian transportation system continues to function normally.
Port Update
The major ports are not reporting any delays. As noted yesterday, there are reports of container shortages in Vancouver that could have an impact on exporters. Feedback on this issue from FMA member companies would be appreciated.
Today the Port of Halifax announced their “Fastlane” initiative to to facilitate the movement of COVID-19 related traffic as follows:
To facilitate the free flow of COVID-19-related cargo, particularly personal protective equipment (PPE) and pharmaceuticals, to major Canadian centres and the U.S. Midwest, the Halifax Port Authority has launched its “Fastlane initiative,” which will facilitate the information flow with its port service provider partners, Ceres Halifax, CN, the ILA, and PSA Halifax.
To find out more, the port can be contacted at fastlane@portofhalifax.ca
Other Supply Chain Commentaries
A report on commentary from the World shipping Council on the role of shipping in supply chains, especially during this pandemic, can be found at the first red bar below. Spokespersons from all parts of the supply chain are highlighting the role of their respective industries, and while FMA members understand the role of all transportation modes, the commentaries for provide useful insights. This commentary is from today’s American Shipper.
The second commentary, also from today’s American Shipper provides insights into actions that Lufthansa Cargo is taking transport urgently needed goods. It also comments on the viability of the airline industry after the world economy returns to normal. This item can be found at the second red bar below.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce Canadian Business Resliance Network
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has initiated this new network that will be of value businesses large and small. It will help Canadian business navigate the COVID-19 reality and help businesses to prepare for recovery. The sign-up page can be found at https://www.canadianbusinessresiliencenetwork.ca/
FMA Government Relations
Transport Canada Marine Policy officials have initiated consultation with FMA and other stakeholders on ocean shipping as part of their outreach to provide briefings for the Minister of Transport. We have similar communication arrangements with the Transport Canada Surface Policy group and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). Any issues that FMA members wish to bring to the attention of of government officials can be forwarded by FMA to the appropriate people at Transport Canada.
FMA Office Operations
FMA staff are primarily working from home. If you need to talk with us, please send messages to me at the email address below and leave a phone number where you can be reached.
Updates Now on the Website
All the COVID-19 updates that FMA has issued are now uploaded to the website and there is a link to them on the home page at www.fma-agf.ca .
Our focus in the FMA updates continues be on supply-chain impacts of COVID-19. If members have questions where FMA may be able to help, please email your request.
Information from members will be useful in our continuing outreach to members and in our communications with the government and with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. As always, all individual company information will be kept confidential.
