BULLETIN : ONGOING STATE OF MARKET : AUSTRALIAN PORTS AND OCEANFREIGHT ROUTES
Initial disruptions at the wharf stemmed from MUA work stoppages in Australian ports, in particular Sydney, but very quickly began to affect the entire logistic framework with inclement weather events adding to the delays of vessel schedules and wharf outturns.
Vessels operate on a loop , and thus being caught in Australia , are late to return to origin and hence to start the next voyage. Once you calculate the number of vessels, all late, on each loop you can begin to see why the issues remain to this time and realistically for the foreseeable future until we can re-set. That potentially could be the Chinese New Year break in 2021.
With vessels omitting ports, they are also failing to exercise the repositioning of empty containers back to origin. This is now starting to become apparent in some overseas port with container equipment being in higher demand than supply.
Both importers and exporters are being equally affected and our industry body, along with export bodies, have been reaching out government to highlight the issues. As you will be aware there is virtually no media coverage on this issue. I have attached said letters.
Carriers in South East Asia are still exercising blocks on Australia shipment bookings in some regions, with no reliable guideline when we can expect these trade lanes to return to schedule.
Our teams remain committed to resolving each case for the best outcome for our clients through these extremely challenging times.
We wish to extend our support to you and your teams and to continue to assist in any possible way that may help alleviate the frustration and difficulties that you may be experiencing .