The International Housewares Association has begun a letter-writing campaign to facilitate industry outreach to congressional leaders in support of a new federal bill seeking to curb unfair practices and charges by ocean carriers that have contributed to skyrocketing freight costs and extended delays for US-bound containers.
The Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021 is being introduced in the House of Representatives. IHA members are encouraged to submit their letters (with a pre-prepared template available) to Congress before October 30 to effect change and improve business conditions.
IHA recently joined a Detention and Demurrage Coalition in cooperation with several industry associations to advise legislators on the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021.
“The ocean freight and logistics issue currently facing our industry and others will undoubtedly have a negative impact on most importers and the retail community,” said Derek Miller, IHA president.
He continued: “The exorbitant prices being charged for containers will ultimately force an increase in retail prices, and if this is allowed to continue, inflation throughout the economy will continue to ensue. As such, it’s an issue that needs to be addressed with urgency, and we are calling on all home + housewares industry constituents to demand that Congress take action on this issue.”
* To read this article in full go to the IHA’s HomePage News HERE.
* For further coverage on HomePage News about the supply chain issues facing US housewares suppliers and retailers, CLICK HERE.
Top: Freight issues are affecting housewares suppliers and retailers around the world. Photo: Tom Fisk.
