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The Association of International Shipping Lines and International Container Terminal Services, Inc recently discussed long-staying import containers and other operational concerns at the Manila International Container Terminal to find practical ways to keep terminal operations and cargo moving
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Laden boxes left unwithdrawn for long periods were flagged as a key factor behind tight yard utilization
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AISL said faster withdrawal would free up yard space, speed up cargo handling and ease pressure on terminal facilities
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The association will also meet with Manila South Harbor operator Asian Terminals to discuss similar challenges
The Association of International Shipping Lines (AISL) and International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) recently discussed developments and operational concerns affecting activities at the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) with the aim of identifying practical measures to support efficient terminal operations and cargo movement.
Import laden containers left unwithdrawn for long periods emerged as a key issue affecting yard utilization, AISL said in a statement. The group acknowledged that these containers take up valuable terminal space for extended periods, leaving less room for incoming cargo and other container-handling activities.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno raised the same concern in a June 19 memorandum. He noted that delays in releasing and withdrawing laden containers “further contribute to congestion and reduce available terminal capacity, resulting in a domino effect on port operations and cargo flow.” The memo set out three measures to address high yard utilization and improve cargo movement at Manila’s international terminals, which had high yard utilization for much of early this year because of a convergence of several factors.
In May, ICTSI and Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) issued advisories reminding importers and cargo owners to speed up the withdrawal of laden containers.
READ: MICT appeals for faster container withdrawal
Overstaying import boxes at South Harbor face transfer in 7 days
AISL said ICTSI, as the terminal operator, highlighted the operational challenges of overstaying containers and the need to withdraw import cargo faster to free up space. Timely withdrawal, the group added, is essential to keep operations flexible, make the best use of capacity and keep containers moving smoothly through the terminal.
Representing international container lines, AISL said it took up the matter with ICTSI because it affects both terminal operations and the wider logistics chain. The discussion stressed practical measures for timely import withdrawal, taking into account the needs of the terminal, shipping lines and other stakeholders. No details of such measures were disclosed.
AISL said addressing long-staying import containers will improve yard space availability, support more efficient cargo handling and reduce operational pressure on terminal facilities. “The issue highlights the importance of ensuring that imported cargo is withdrawn promptly once the necessary requirements have been completed,” the group added.
AISL to meet ATI next
AISL will also meet ATI to discuss the latest operational developments at its terminal and explore measures to address similar challenges with long-staying import containers. The group said this will give it a broader view of conditions at the country’s major container terminals and help identify ways to improve terminal-space use and cargo flow. AISL said it remains committed to representing its member shipping lines and working with terminal operators and other stakeholders on workable solutions.
AISL also met recently with the Philippine Multimodal Transport and Logistics Association for a consultative dialogue on current operational concerns, especially the long-standing problem of empty container returns, and to explore coordination.
READ: Carriers, forwarders tackle empty container returns, other operational issues
The talks come as other stakeholders, especially truckers, raise concerns about port and trucking issues, including empty container returns and port congestion. Some trucking and port groups recently held a trucking holiday to press for action on tight depot space and empty container returns.
The Bureau of Customs (BOC), which has been working with stakeholders, has drafted a proposed joint administrative order (JAO) to address port congestion, high logistics costs and inefficient empty container returns. The JAO is now awaiting signature from the concerned government officials.
READ: JAO on port issues up for secretaries’ signatures—Nepomuceno
