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Many of you have heard about the new requirements for low sulfur fuel, and we have seen some small surcharges implemented in the last year. In 2015, however, all sources are indicating more significant increases are coming. Beginning January 1, 2015, a new low-sulfur fuel mandate implemented by the International Maritime Organization will go into effect. This mandate is in an effort to reduce sulfur emissions in the Emission Control Areas (ECAs) designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Mandatory Biennial Registration Renewal for Food Facilities is now required between October 1, 2014, until December 31, 2014. If your facility is not re-registered with the FDA by December 31, 2014, the FDA will cancel your Bioterrorism Act registration, and your importations will be delayed.

The mountain pass connecting Chile and Argentina that was closed last week and over the weekend was re-opened today! Good weather conditions are expected to last for the duration of this week, which will hopefully enable the pass to stay open.

Cargo is flowing unhindered today as the mountain pass connecting Chile and Argentina was very recently re-opened.

Additionally, the Argentinean Customs strike that was to begin today and conclude Sunday was suspended until next week. If the workers do not receive a response to their requirements within the week, the strike will take place from Wednesday, October 1st, to Sunday, October 5th.
Again, feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns that you may have about these developments.

Because of a dock fire that occurred yesterday, many terminals at the Port of Los Angeles closed early last night and have stayed closed today. Currently, only a few terminals at the Port of Long Beach are open – ITS, PCT, and Pier A.

Additionally, being that the wharf is coated with creosote—a tar-based protectant—the danger of hazardous air quality exists. Several area schools have been closed, and residents of San Pedro have been asked to stay inside and refrain from using their air conditioners. Therefore, the availability of longshore labor at affected terminals may also be limited.