Typhoon Disruption Continues Across Far East Ports
A succession of powerful typhoons has caused repeated disruption to shipping schedules and port operations across the Far East, with little opportunity for regional supply chains to recover between each storm.
Following earlier disruption from Typhoon Maysak and Super Typhoon Bavi, attention has now turned to Typhoon Dolphin. The powerful system is moving westwards towards Japan’s southwestern islands, with forecasts indicating that it could subsequently enter the East China Sea and potentially affect Taiwan and eastern China.
Although Dolphin’s precise route and intensity remain subject to change, further port closures, vessel diversions or operating restrictions could place additional strain on already congested shipping networks.
Typhoon Bavi caused considerable disruption across eastern China during July, temporarily affecting operations at Shanghai, Ningbo, Zhoushan and Qingdao. Although ports have since reopened, some terminals and shipping lines continue to work through vessel backlogs, revised schedules and accumulated cargo. Delays of between two and five days have been reported on some services, with individual shipments potentially affected for longer.
Shanghai and Ningbo remain among the ports facing the greatest pressure, while significant congestion and operational restrictions have also been reported at Yantian, Shekou and Nansha. When vessels miss berthing windows and arrive together, the resulting bunching can take several weeks to clear.
Port congestion remains a wider global issue, particularly during Asia peak season periods when increased cargo volumes place further pressure on vessel capacity, terminal operations and equipment availability. Continued weather disruption could increase the likelihood of rolled bookings, missed connections, equipment shortages and changes to departure schedules.
Killick Martin continues to monitor the situation closely alongside our overseas partners and will provide updates on any significant developments.
