CLEANS 80.6 A2445r

I am privileged to present the Report of the Advisory Commission on Conferences in Ocean Shipping, as required by section 18 of the Shipping Act of 1984.

Since the Commission was established on April 10, 1991, it has conducted a comprehensive review of the conference system. The Commission heard from over 100 witnesses during the five field hearings held around the country. Indepth interviews with approximately 120 industry representatives supplemented the information provided to the Commission by the Federal Maritime Commission, the Departments of Transportation and Justice, and the Federal Trade Commission.

This Report contains information on and analysis of the major issues that arise in
connection with ocean shipping conferences. It also sets forth the views and
recommendations of shipper, carrier, conference, freight forwarder, non-vessel-
operating common carrier and shippers' association representatives who testified
before, submitted information to, or were interviewed by the Commission. In
addition, individual Commissioners have provided separate statements
highlighting certain significant issues in international ocean liner shipping and
changes, if any, they would recommend to the current regulatory structure.

This is an important document. Future efforts to address the international ocean liner industry, its regulation, and the health of the U.S.-flag fleet will be far more informed by virtue of the work of the Commission and its staff reflected in this detailed and thorough Report. I fully expect that it will serve as a valuable predicate for upcoming policy initiatives within the Executive Branch.