The Hong Kong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics (HAFFA) has expressed its strong support for the Hong Kong SAR Government's newly announced legislative proposals. The Import and Export (Amendment) Bill 2023 aims to amend regulations concerning the transshipment of alternative smoking products, a crucial step in addressing the decline in air cargo exports.
A Sharp Decline in Air Cargo Exports
The implementation of the Smoking (Public Health) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021 on April 30, 2022, led to a significant drop in air cargo exports. Recent data from the Airport Authority reveals a staggering 30% decrease in air freight exports in January 2023. Among other factors, the ban on e-cigarette product transshipment through Hong Kong has been a primary contributor to this downturn, as manufacturers have been forced to reroute their exports through Macau or South Korea.
The Impact of Transshipment Restrictions on Hong Kong's Economy
The transshipment ban on e-cigarettes has not only had a severely negative effect on the industry but has also dealt a major blow to the local economy and people's livelihoods. Recognizing the importance of balancing public health concerns with economic stability, HAFFA has endorsed the government's proposed legislative revisions to restore existing transshipment methods and support the struggling freight logistics sector.
HAFFA's Commitment to Safe and Secure Transshipment Solutions
HAFFA Chairman Gary Lau emphasized the organization's dedication to finding a safe and secure solution for the transportation of e-cigarette products. The association has proposed a new land transportation method to the Transport and Logistics Bureau, ensuring strict regulatory compliance and cooperation to prevent e-cigarettes from entering the local black market.
This proposed intermodal transshipment plan would involve secured land transfers directly to the cargo terminals at the airport. HAFFA is actively discussing the details of this plan with the government, with the goal of resuming land-air transshipment of e-cigarette products as soon as possible.
The Role of HAFFA in the Freight Forwarding and Logistics Industry
Established in 1966 and currently boasting over 320 corporate members, HAFFA plays a vital role in setting industry standards and providing educational courses to enhance the professional expertise of freight forwarders and logistics service providers. Their support for the Import and Export (Amendment) Bill 2023 showcases their commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry while addressing pressing concerns related to public health and the economy.