Latest reports from China suggest that the existing backlog at the Port of Yantian is growing, with delays now expected to last two weeks or more.

Ongoing labour shortages due to the recent Covid-19 outbreak and a reduction in port performance at YICT has affected vessel schedules, with container lines forced to skip calls or call at alternative ports. Yantian’s western terminal also remains closed, and it is not yet clear when this will reopen.

Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM and ONE, among other carriers, are already omitting calls at Yantian throughout June. Meanwhile, some sailings are being diverted to other ports in the region such as Nansha, about 90 miles west of Yantian.

Iain Brymer, Regional Global Manager for Uniserve, warns: “The situation at Yantian is worsening, thanks to a shortage of port personnel due to the Covid-19 outbreak, along with freight demand continuing to outstrip supply. With Yantian’s western terminal currently closed, and the eastern terminal operating at only 30%, we anticipate delays of at least 14 days for the immediate future.

However, with services being diverted elsewhere, we are also seeing congestion build at other ports in the region, which is resulting in increased disruption and tighter entry restrictions.”

Uniserve continues to work closely with its network to monitor the situation, and advises customers to contact their Customer Development Manager for updates or to discuss any concerns.

Uniserve would be pleased to discuss credible alternatives for moving customer cargoes to offset the affects of these temporary difficulties.

Don’t forget that Uniserve are also able to offer a range of outstanding airfreight services to complement your existing ocean / land supply chain solutions. For more information please call 01375 414 331 or email info@ugroup.co.uk

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