Global supply chains are facing further disruption as the city of Shanghai was put into a phased lockdown following a surge in COVID-19 cases. Chinese authorities have put the eastern half of the city, known as Pudong, into lockdown until April 1st. From that date Shanghai districts west of the Huangpu River will go into lockdown until April 5th.

Over the weekend, over 3,450 cases of COVID-19 were reported in Shanghai, compelling the authorities to act, despite the immense commercial importance of the city to both the Chinese and global economies. The city government said that the two-part lockdown of Shanghai’s 25 million people was being implemented “to curb the spread of the epidemic, ensure the safety and health of the people” and root out cases of infection “as soon as possible”.

Shanghai residents involved in the provision of vital services such as gas, electricity, transport, sanitation and food supply are understood to be exempt from the stay-at-home order. Nevertheless, delays and disruptions to supply chains remain likely.

With Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) located in the eastern half of the city, Uniserve is advising customers that there will be no new air cargo bookings out of PVG airport until 4th / 5th April. However, we are overcoming this by utilising alternative local gateways from which to uplift cargo.
Additionally, while Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) has stated that the port would ensure normal operations during the period of lockdown, delays and labour shortages in connecting landside transport are likely to generate throughput delays.

We encourage you to contact your Customer Development Manager on 01375 856060 or email crmteam@ugroup.co.uk to discuss any concerns.