Circular 2/04: 2004 Policy Year
02/02/2004
We have been advised that the Singapore Authorities will not permit stowaways to be landed in Singapore for repatriation, even if these stowaways possess valid travel documents or passports.
During the past few days, many Members have sent in queries arising from recent amendments to the US Customs' '24 Hour Rule' which will require from 4th March, 2004 that all vessel carriers submit cargo information electronically to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/home.xml). Under the amended requirements each carrier must also provide its own customs bond (International Carriers Bond) and should obtain its own US Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC).
We have been advised that all Australian maritime industry participants, including regulated Australian ship operators, must submit their security plans by 1st March 2004 to the Department of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS).
We would like to advise Members who are trading to Australia that the Australian Customs Service (ACS) are now insisting upon sighting a confirmation of ships' P&I entry prior to granting them permission to sail from any Australian port.
We have been advised that the Head of Port Customs has issued a directive to all ship agencies concerning the settlement of custom fines.