- FMC has opened a 15-day public comment period on a proposed vessel-sharing agreement involving three major shipping companies.
- The new “Premier Alliance” allows the companies to collaborate on vessel use, capacity, and operations.
- FMC will review comments and determine if the agreement may harm competition or increase transportation costs.
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has initiated 15 days for the public to submit comments on a newly filed vessel-sharing agreement. The proposed partnership involves three shipping companies that are also members of THE Alliance Agreement, set to run until February 2025, reports Container News.
Formation of the Premier Alliance
Under this new “Premier Alliance,” the companies aim to share vessels, exchange space, and collaborate on vessel specifications and operational matters.
This agreement allows further flexibility beyond their previous arrangement.
Access to the Agreement and Comment Submission
The Premier Alliance Agreement is publicly available through the FMC’s online Agreement Library. The FMC encourages comments to be submitted by November 20, 2024, to aid in the Commission’s review process.
Submitted comments will remain confidential per 46 CFR 535.608, barring certain exceptions.
Exemption from Federal Antitrust Laws
The FMC states that “activities conducted under agreements filed with the Commission and in effect are exempt from federal antitrust laws.”
If no action is taken by the FMC, the agreement will automatically take effect on December 12, 2024.
Evaluation of Competition and Cost Impacts
The FMC’s review will assess whether the agreement might result in “an unreasonable reduction in transportation services, increased transportation costs, or a significant decrease in competition.”
Additionally, the Commission will verify that the agreement adheres to Shipping Act provisions and FMC regulations.
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Source: Container News
