St. Lawrence Shipoperators' Association (SLS) Applauds FMC decision, Looks to TC to Make Next Move

Monday, the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission closed its investigation into the potential trade barriers caused by Canada’s ballast water regulations without imposing any tariffs or other punitive measures on Canadian and Quebecker shipowners, a welcome outcome to a complex process.

SLS has been active in advocating for this exact outcome for its members and applauds the FMC for navigating a complicated situation and arriving at the only logical outcome.

However, the process is only postponed, as temporary exemptions were granted for U.S. carriers. "Within 24 months, we will be right back to the same place unless Transport Canada puts in place durable and fair solutions," said Saul Polo, Executive Director of SLS.

This outcome highlights the need to have governments apply harmonized approaches to protect trade and environmental standards in the Great Lakes. Both SLS and FMC highlight the potential for negative impacts when regulatory measures on carriers and trade across the Great Lakes are unaligned. The ball is now in Transport Canada's court.

"We said on day 1, and repeat today, that Transport Canada's ballast water regulations are flawed and create an unfair playing field in the Great Lakes. The FMC has just handed TC a golden opportunity to make things right before the temporary exemptions run out," continued Mr. Polo.

-30-