Congestion Escalates Due To Covid Cases

Further to our recent updates on Yantian, port congestion and slow operations have escalated in Southern China following further cases of Covid-19.

Imports from the region are now severely impacted by increased Covid measures and a significant reduction in operational throughput – now affecting Yantian, Nansha, Shekou and indirectly Hong Kong.

The western area of Yantian port has been closed over recent days and the eastern side is working at around 30% capacity. Vessel loading and unloading is around 15 days behind, with over 40 ships reported to be anchored in queue – the impact of which has been described as ‘worse than Suez’.

Many carriers are now omitting calls at Yantian and surrounding ports, with slow operations leading to backlogs of up to 3 weeks. This is increasing pressure on nearby Nansha, Shekou and Hong Kong terminals. Even Singapore has been affected by vessel omissions, which usually relies on a heavy flow of transhipment cargo from China.

Container transport operators throughout Southern China are struggling to cope with heightened Covid restrictions and driver testing at ports, with delays inevitable.

Atlantic Pacific continue to work extremely hard to mitigate the impact on your supply chain, although please bear with us as the current situation has become very challenging.

Should you further information on the above, or wish to discuss alternative solutions, then please do not hesitate to contact us.