HONGKONG Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics Limited (HAFFA) chairman Peter Wong told 700 members at his organisation's annual spring dinner that the group enjoyed a substantial improvements in demand during the last quarter of 2009 and he hoped this year would show more of the same.
Mr Wong emphasised the industry's resilience in facing the problems by the downturn, and outlined opportunities that lay ahead during the association's annual spring dinner held at the Hong Kong International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
After talks with the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), the Transport and Housing Bureau (THB) and the Customs and Excise Department, a new system called "Approval-in-Principle Arrangement for bulk users of strategic commodities licensing service" had been devised, he said, facilitating more efficient cargo movement.
In light of International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) recommendation to reform the current Regulated Agent Regime to tighten security, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) completed consultations with HAFFA, resulting in the Aviation Security Committee (ASC) endorsing proposals to facilitate better auditing of the secured supply chain.
With the government's dropping of import duties on beer, wine and other alcohol, though not spirits, there is a need for professionally managed wine storage facilities.
Under the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) a Wine Storage Management Systems Certification Scheme was mandated to help both fine wine and commercial wine storage facilities meet required standards. The scheme is the first of its kind in the region and HAFFA is actively participating in the certification's technical committee.
HAFFA's efforts to provide industry newcomers with training programme has resulted in the first Vocational Training Programme for air freight logistics in January. HAFFA is developing other modules and expects to have a complete programme in two years, said the group's statement.
Said Mr Wong: "We continue to look for ways to lower members' operational costs, so that we are able to be more competitive in the market. I am confident that our comprehensive plans will bring benefits to our industry."
HAFFA was established in 1966, and is responsible for setting industry standards as well as providing education go enhance the professional standards of freight forwarders and logistics providers in Hong Kong, said a statement from the group.
(Source: www.schednet.com)