has advised shipbrokers, consultants and other advisers not to sign confidentiality agreements which restrict their ability to do business.
Noting that it is increasingly being asked to comment on confidentiality (or so-called non-disclosure) agreements, ITIC says, "The use of such agreements has always been common when parties are considering doing business but need to provide information to the other party before they enter into a formal contract. In these circumstances, the party providing the information will protect its interests by insisting that the receiving party signs a stand-alone confidentiality agreement. Historically, this has been associated with transactions such as the sale of corporations but, more and more, ITIC is seeing it in a wide range of circumstances involving its members.
"Consultants and other advisers needing access to information to enable them to provide their services are frequently asked to sign confidentiality agreements. Increasingly, too, shipbrokers providing valuation services receive the same request. The important thing is to ensure that the wording of the agreement does not unnecessarily restrict the member's ability to do business with other clients."
ITIC has created an e-learning seminar which will explain common provisions in confidentiality agreements, and some of the pitfalls to avoid. The seminar is accessible at
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) has successfully defended a ship manager against allegations of negligence made by a shipowner following the loss of a lifeboat overboard.
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) has produced an e-learning video for ship agents on the use of ‘switch bills of lading’, a second sets of bills used as a substitute for the original bills of lading issued at time of shipment.
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) has launched a cyber liability extension to ITIC policies to protect its existing professional indemnity members against the growing threat posed by hackers.
To minimise risk and improve port safety, three of the cargo handling industry's leading bodies have produced an information paper Collision Prevention At Ports & Terminals.
