As you would have seen from previous notices and if you have visited out website, AFIF is preparing to deliver training to the export and forwarding community on requirements of the new Customs Integrated Cargo System (ICS).  Further to our workshops held at AFIF 2003 Conference, where we focused on business registration and PKI (digital certificate) requirements, we will now be concentrating on the operational aspects of the Exports phase. 

AUSTRALIAN AIR EXPRESS TO INTRODUCE SECURITY FEE

Australian Air Express have announced that following implementation of new security equipment (involving a combination of x-ray and explosive detection equipment), across all their terminals, a fee will be charged to the export forwarder (or shipper) as applicable, from July 1st. The exact methodology is being considered. The AFIF position has not changed since the introduction of security fees by CTO’s and that is we believe that this fee should be levied against the carrier because air travel in theory becomes safer as a result of this additional security. Forwarders have their own regulated agent program and have completed checks to the point of delivery to the CTO. We accept that security is here to stay and it is a desire of AFIF to see standardisation of methods and charging and this area should not become commercially competitive.

AFIF CONFERENCE 2003 – A BIG HIT!

We are delighted to report that AFIF Conference 2003 held at Coffs Harbour May 21-23, was a big success.  From the number of delegates to the quality of the speakers and their presentations, feedback from delegates, sponsors and presenters has all been excellent. 
Stay tuned! We will soon post on our website, photos and speaker presentations from the conference.


AFIF ACHIEVE CREDIT PROCESSING BREAKTHROUGH WITH AIRLINES

AFIF and IATA reached agreement recently on new processing procedures for Airline Credits owed to Forwarders.

As per CASS bulletin 16^th May 2003, item 03/5 airlines will now process credits within 28 days provided that the forwarder has completed the new ‘request for amendment’ form and has submitted relevant supporting documentation.  Conditions may apply to claims over 3 months old.  This is major progress!!

FUNDING FOR ELECTRONIC COMMERCE INITIATIVES

As per separate bulletin, AFIF is involved in the management of The Tradegate Development Fund set up to examine proposals for the development of electronic commerce initiatives, to benefit industry.  The money comes from a small fee which is part of the Customs import processing charge and the committee responsible consists of Industry representatives from Forwarding; Broking & Air/Sea Carrier Associations.  Your proposals are awaited!!

AFIF CONTRIBUTE TO SYDNEY AIRPORT FUTURE PLAN

At the invitation of Mr Max Moore-Wilton (the new CEO of Sydney Airports), AFIF airfreight representatives have participated in high level discussions with Sydney Airport in regard to future plans for cargo facility development.  Sydney is due to release it’s 20 year master operating plan later this year.

CUSTOMS IMPORT COST RECOVERY CHARGES

In response to questions raised at the AFIF conference, customs have produced a simple table to outline the breakdown of import cost recovery charges. This has now been posted on our website, or click here to go direct:

AQIS  – USA PROPOSE TO ADOPT INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR WOODPACKING

Adoption of the international standards for solid wood packing material, as agreed by the Plant Protection Convention on 15^th March 2002, was put on hold for a variety of legal reasons.

The USA have announced that they are likely to adopt these standards.  If they do so, it will greatly facilitate compliance (by overseas exporters) with Australian conditions (in force since April 2001). 
Click on the following link on our website to read the full story.

ROBBERY AT FORWARDERS PREMISES!

Further to AFIF bulletin Thursday, 8^th May regarding this incident, our IT technician has suggested that this serves as a reminder to make sure all data is backed up, secured and a copy kept off site.  Also ensure any sensitive information on PCs, CD’s etc, is encrypted, or secured by password in order to minimise the risk from intruders. Particularly important if  PC’s are removed  and sold / dumped.  You may already be doing this but is still good advice - Ed

EDI ANNOUNCE NEW PRODUCT

Industry software provider - Eagle Datamation International have announced the release of ediEnterprise – a fully functioned Windows application for the forwarding, broking and logistic community.  This new product will replace and extend the current ‘Deliverance’ system. It is fully compliant with CMR requirements.  Go to:  http://www.edi.com.au/edienterprise/introduction.htm

UPGRADE TO THE EXPORT MARKET DEVELOPMENT GRANT SCHEME (EMDG)

Trade Minister Mark Vaile has announced proposed refinements to the EMDG aimed at assisting small/medium enterprises with overseas business.  Go to:
http://www.austrade.gov.au/australia/layout/0,,0_S2-1_CLNTXID0021-2_-3_-4_-5_-6_-7_,00.html

This could be extremely valuable information to your export clients.

:: AFIF TRAINING

AFIF TRAINING TIP

When registering for Dangerous Goods Re-certification training, please keep in mind the date that your current certification expires.

To avoid situations where your certification may expire before obtaining your new one, why not think about booking onto a course 2 months before the date your certificate is due to expire.  That way, if you are not able to attend the course due to ill health or if you need to re-sit an exam, you will have the option of attending the next course before your certification expires.   

To apply for an extension from CASA is not always a feasible alternative.  CASA will only provide extensions in extenuating circumstances. 

Vacancies are still available for the following AFIF courses...