Unfortunately, due to the increased spread of the coronavirus in Shanghai, authorities at China’s commercial hub have decided to extend the current lockdown. Shanghai now accounts for three out of every four local asymptomatic cases across the country. Currently, there is no confirmation as to how long the measures will stay in place. Factories are closed as is all public transport. The ports of Waigaoqiao and Yangshan are congested due to the reduction of longshoremen at the port, which impacts the efficiency of loading and offloading vessels. Some steamship lines have announced vessel delays or are omitting Shanghai port on some voyages. Shippers are sending cargo via Ningbo port as an alternative, which will ultimately cause congestion and lack of space in Ningbo, the longer the lockdown continues in Shanghai.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise further.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Director – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
