The Kerala Steamer Agents Association has sought urgent intervention to address the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on maritime trade, following a meeting held on May 7 with the Chairman of Cochin Port Authority.
During the discussions, industry representatives highlighted a significant decline in import volumes due to the prevailing geopolitical situation. The Cochin Port Authority assured full support and cooperation to help the trade community stabilize operations during the challenging period.
A major issue raised during the meeting was the accumulation of containers at Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva), where cargo could not be cleared because of high storage and ground rent charges. While a 15-day waiver has already been granted by the port authorities, the Chairman of Cochin Port Authority advised the association to formally request an extension of the waiver, considering the continued disruption caused by the West Asia crisis.
The association plans to submit the request to the Nhava Sheva authorities with a copy marked to the Cochin Port Authority, which has agreed to support efforts for the early release of stranded containers.
To facilitate quicker cargo movement once the waiver is extended, members have also been advised to complete customs procedures related to “Back to Town” formalities and keep all documentation ready.
The association has further requested members to urgently share details of containers currently held at Nhava Sheva through a common data collection process, enabling immediate representation before the port authorities.
Cochin Port Authority also informed stakeholders that members facing operational difficulties arising from the West Asia crisis may directly communicate their concerns to the port administration for assistance.