Task Force seeks concessions for importers, consignees

COLOMBO (News1st): The Presidential Task Force to combat COVID - 19 has requested the Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents to grant certain concessions to importers and consignees owing to the current situation in the country. In a letter to the association, Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama, a member of the Presidential Task Force requested to waive off the demurrage incurred by containers from March 16 until normalcy is restored in the country. The letter also sought to consider releasing delivery orders on bank indemnity pending reference to load port/shipper as they may be unavailable to respond promptly resulting in delays in clearing cargo. On the same lines, the Presidential Task Force requested to consider releasing delivery orders pending settlement of charges due to the inability of many companies to process cheques or payments on time. Further, Dr. Wickrama requested to facilitate exports in a similar manner as well. The letter noted that the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Colombo International Container Terminals, and South Asia Gateway Terminals have also been requested to waive storage charges and rent levied from shipping lines, consignees, importers and exporters.