FMC Releases Schedule for Hearing on Threats to Shipping

The Federal Maritime Commission will hear from individuals representing shipper, carrier, and port interests at its informal hearing examining impacts to shipping and supply chains from current conditions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden regions.

The informal hearing is being held Wednesday, February 7, 2024, in the Surface Transportation Board Hearing Room, 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC, 20423. Public attendance is welcomed but seating is limited and will be provided on a first come basis. The hearing will be live streamed on the Commission’s YouTube channel. Registration is not required to view the live stream.

10:00 AM-10:30 AM — Opening Remarks by Chairman and Commissioners

10:30 AM-12:10 PM — Shipper Panel One

• Sarah Gilmore, Director, Supply Chain Policy, Retail Industry Leaders Association
• Jonathan Gold, Vice President, Supply Chain and Customs Policy, National Retail Federation
• Peter Friedmann, Executive Director, Agriculture Transportation Coalition
• Lori Fellmer, Vice President Logistics and Carrier Management, BassTech International, representing National Industrial Transportation League

12:10 PM-1:00 PM —  Carriers & Ports Panel

• Mario Cordero, Chief Executive Officer, Port of Long Beach
• Joe Kramek, Director of US Government Relations, World Shipping Council

2:00 PM-3:40 PM — Shipper Panel Two and Maritime Security

• Tim Avanzato, Vice President of International Operations, Lanca Sales, Inc.
• Eric Bartsch, Secretary, USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council and the American Pulse Association
• Eric Byer, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alliance for Chemical Distribution
• Ian Ralby, Chief Executive Officer, I.R. Consilium

3:40 PM-4:30 PM — Closing Remarks by Chairman & Commissioners

Please note that the above schedule is subject to change.