In the aftermath of law enforcement discovering contraband from its container vessel MSC Gayane at the port of Philadelphia (US) last week, the Mediterranean Shipping Co. (MSC) has put out a statement emphasising that it will continue to collaborate with authorities worldwide to ensure that its vessels are secure and can deliver customers’ cargo safely and reliably.
It asserted that this matter is being taken very seriously by the company, while expressing its gratitude to the authorities for identifying any suspected abuse of its services and operations.
While pointing out that this has resulted in US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) temporarily suspending—not revoking—its Customs Trade Partnership (C-TPAT) certification, MSC clarified that the line has not been restricted from doing business in, or suspended from operating in, the US market. This action does not prevent customers doing business with MSC, it stressed.
“Furthermore, customers should only expect minimal disruption as a result of the C-TPAT certification issue. For example, there could possibly be additional inspections on certain containers coming from South and Central America to the USA. There will be no impact on Customs clearance for cargo, which is flowing regularly in and out of the USA,” the statement explained.
The statement added that MSC is actively seeking to assure the authorities, that its certification can be reinstated as soon as possible. Also, notwithstanding the suspension of C-TPAT status, the line will continue to comply with the requirements of the programme, the statement added.
C-TPAT is a voluntary partnership between governments and carriers to ensure supply chain security.
