[070611.EN.BIZ] Global Shippers' Forum Seek NGO Status To Access Intergovernmental Bodies

THE Global Shippers' Forum (GSF), formerly known as the Tripartite Shippers' Group, has gained not-for-profit status under British law, which it expects will enhance its position as a global voice for shippers.

"Our goal is to promote a safe, secure and competitive freight transportation system that will enhance global trade and prosperity," said its founding chairman Bob Ballantyne, president of the Canadian Industrial Transportation Association.

The remaining board members of the GSF were announced at the International Transport Forum in Leipzig, Germany and include Asian Shippers' Council chairman John Lu, UK Freight Transport Association head James Hookham and National Industrial Transportation League president and CEO Bruce Carlton.

NGO status, said its secretary general Chris Welsh, would help provide GSF greater access to decision-making, intergovernmental bodies such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), International Labour Organisation (ILO) and World Customs Organisation (WCO).

The GSF seeks to achieve freely competitive markets through best practice and a minimal state intervention, said Mr Carlton, reports American Shipper. "The bottom line for the GSF is that shippers pay the bills. Decisions made by carriers, governments, and international and intergovernmental organisations on the environment, safety, security and underlying competitive framework have a direct impact on shipper incomes."

Its next annual meeting will take place November 15-17 to be held by the National Industrial Transportation (NIT) League.

Source : HKSG, 06.06.11.