December 2023 Local and Industry Updates

Local Updates

Please note these holiday schedules:

• - GCT Vanterm and Deltaport and DP World Fraser Surrey Dock closed on Dec 25, Dec 26, and Jan 1
• - DP World Centerm closed Dec 24, 25 and 26 and Jan 1. Hours for Dec 23 are 8 a.m. - 3:59 p.m.. Hours for Dec 27 are 8 a.m. - 11:59 p.m.
• - Trakking’s office will be closed Dec 25, Dec 26, and Jan 1. The Trakking platform will remain online through the holiday season.
• - Availability of empty containers, in all sizes, is tight, resulting from an imbalance in imports and exports. Shipping lines are being cautious with export booking releases as they try to maximize vessel utilization

Industry News

ETS changes coming in January 2024

As of January 1, 2024, The European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) will apply to all large ships entering EU ports, marking an important step for the cap-and-trade system which was launched in 2005 to combat climate change. Shipping companies using EU ports will be required to purchase European Union Allowances (EUA) for each ton of CO2 they emit. Industry analysts foresee increased freight rates and costs to other businesses in the supply chain, as shipping companies begin to factor in the EUA. As a platform committed both to emissions reduction and enabling efficient adjustments to changing conditions, Trakking is well-positioned to assist trucking companies in preparing for broader ETS implications.

Canadian shippers urge Ottawa to act as Montreal port talks hit impasse

The federal government is being called on to help prevent a possible strike at Canada’s second-busiest port, as negotiations with longshore workers have reached an impasse. Dockworkers are seeking a new pay package from maritime employers. Shipping companies have expressed frustration about not having a seat at the bargaining table, and are wary of the impact of potential disruptions, similar to the 13-day Port of Vancouver strike, which the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade said affected $10.7 billion in commerce.

Canada establishing new Supply Chain Office

Nearly $30 million will be invested in establishing a National Supply Chain Office in Canada, which will be tasked with responding to supply chain disruptions such as those seen during the COVID pandemic. The new office is one of 21 actions recommended by the National Supply Chain Task Force in its October 2022 report, which also outlined easing port congestion and addressing labor shortages among the priorities for Canada’s shipping industry.