The Meishan International Container Terminal (MSICT) of the Ningbo-Zhoushan port complex, has started to turn vessels away yesterday morning after a dock worker tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Truckers are not able to pick up empty containers or gate-in loaded containers to the terminal.
Ningbo is the 3rd largest container port in the world and encompasses five container terminals. The shutdown of the Meishan Terminal for a day, eliminates 20% of the port’s capacity. There are reportedly 140 containerships at anchor waiting for berth outside of the port which was already heavily congested due to the impact of typhoon In-Fa last month. Any lengthy closure will result in diversion of vessels to other terminals and ports – further exacerbating capacity and putting upward pressure on freight rates.
We are closely watching developments at the Ningbo port, and will keep you updated with any additional information.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
