2/1/12 -

If you are at the lunch meeting today, you may hear me reference some of these items, but I thought it would be easy for everyone if I posted them here.

Export Reform Control:   There is a government website  (www.export.gov/ecr/index.asp) that is excellent source in tracking  this project at any given time.  It also shows when public comments close, if you were to want to add some.

Mission to DC:    As you are probably aware, every year a group of CRCBFA people go to Washington DC to represent our group within the PCC and the west coast. We will be in DC from February 27 to 29 this year.  Some of the issues that we are focusing on with regards to exports are as follows:

        1.  Option-4 :  AES Option 4 has been closed since 2002 to new applicants.  If it were to be re-opened, it could lessen the burden on exporters, reducing time and money.

        2.  Infrastructure:   Waterways, roads, rail, and air are all modes we deal with on a daily basis.  Keeping and enhancing the system we have to help exports get to market faster and cheaper, would help the exporter and the deficit.

        3.  National Export Initiative:  (NEI)  Of course we support Obama's NEI and will keep identifying bottlenecks in the the daily processes that could be enhanced to increase potential exports.

       4.   Harbor Maintenance Fees:  (HMT)  There is a pool of money that has been collected, but it is not being spent for the sole purpose the HMT lives, to maintain our ports.    This money is being left in the funds to help "balance the nation's budget".   Portland alone has a great need for maintaining its port, which demands much dredging of the Columbia River. 

FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) - The FMC has an open public comment period through March 26, 2012, asking the public for its input on what the FMC can do to enhance NVOCC's businesses. 

EGT Terminal in Longview-  Looks like it will be opening soon for business.

GRI's (General Rate Increases) :  Many GRI's came in January and then now in February, with many more proposed for March.  Who knows what will stick and what won't, but please be aware of the details that are out there from the individual carriers.

That's all I will post for now.   I hope if ever there is something that you want this group (CRCBFA) to pursue that is Export related, you will contact me:  email (brenda@allports.com)  or phone (503 242 1201).

Thank you,

Brenda Barnes, Export Chair