Importer Accuses Competitor of Fraud

A non-vessel-operating common carrier is complaining to the Federal Maritime Commission that an interrelated group of competitors is violating the Shipping Act by operating without a license, tariff or bond, failing to file ocean carrier service contracts, and failing to establish just and reasonable practices.

AMC USA, the New York-based affiliate of AMC France, based in Cognac, alleged that International First Service, Global Wine Logistics and related companies are engaged in “a willful and deliberate fraudulent scheme to steal customers” by transporting goods for less than rates and charges that would otherwise apply.

AMC also alleged that former executive vice president, Anita McNeil, is now president of GFS USA and GWL USA.

The FMC turned the case over to the agency's administrative law judges for further action.

Contact R.G. Edmonson at bedmonson@joc.com.