59 - 07/98 - Sugar Problems - Worldwide
30/06/1998
We have been made aware of strict new attitudes of the Venezuelan authorities, especially the Institute of the Preservation of the Lake Maracaibo (ICLAM) and the Ministry of the Environment towards incidents where oil is spilt, or where ballast water is pumped into the sea, Lake Maracaibo or rivers.
Please refer also to Bulletin 15 - 09/97 - Oil Record Book Checking - Bremerhaven (Germany) and Bulletin 32 - 01/98 - Oil Record Book Checking (Fines) - Worldwide.
We understand there is over-production of grain in Argentina at the present time. This year's harvest is estimated at 60m tons, whereas there is only storage and drying facilities for 50m tons. We are informed that producers are being advised to store crops rather than sell at low prices.
44 - 04/98 - Container Shortages/Fines
31/03/1998
We have heard from our Syrian correspondent that clausing a B/L 'Shipper's Load and Count' and/or ' Said to contain' is insufficent when defending claims and customs fines for shortages where containers are delivered with seals intact. It would appear both the lower courts and the Court of Cassation in Syria find the clauses insufficient proof that the shipowner has not had the opportunity to check the cargo.