New Zealand ready for VGM

Ahead of the July 1 go-live, Mr Rendle says his organisation has been regularly engaging with industry through various mediums as well as fielding a steady stream of enquiries, and has recently posted the amended maritime rules and other relevant information on its website.

“We have been very encouraged to see the industry speaking with a common voice and that the messages to shippers appear clear and consistent and aligned with our own messages,” he says.

“We will work closely with ports and shipping lines to identify and profile any problem sectors, and will respond to reports of any significant mis-declarations or consistent non-compliance.”

Among MNZ’s key messages to shippers:

• a VGM is required from July 1 — no VGM, no load (port rules from June 15 notwithstanding)
• be clear on your responsibilities as a shipper
• talk to your packer, freight-forwarder, port and shipping line
• keep good records
• visit MNZ and port Websites