Maersk introduced a $60 In-Transit Surcharge for cargo to Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador to enhance port services and expedite customs clearance. The fee takes effect on Feb 26 (non-U.S. contracts) and Mar 26 (U.S. contracts).

Singapore’s Tuas Port, the world’s largest automated terminal, has handled 10 million TEUs. Developed in four phases, it is expected to handle 65 million TEUs annually by 2040, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a global transshipment hub.

SCFI rates fell for the sixth week, with U.S. routes down over 17%. Europe routes face "rate inversion," and March rate hikes show limited impact. Further hikes are expected in April-June, potentially stabilizing rates.

Direct clients prefer freight forwarders over shipping lines for one-stop services, cost advantages, slot guarantees, and risk management. Large clients or industries with high supply chain control may contact shipping lines directly, but forwarders remain vital in global logistics.

Un envío de cerezas chilenas en el Puerto de Nansha enfrenta retención por fallas en la cadena de frío. Las inspecciones aduaneras han identificado problemas críticos, y los análisis de laboratorio determinarán si la carga es retenida o destruida. Las negociaciones entre Maersk, consignatarios y aduanas chinas siguen sin avances. Esto amenaza el récord de exportaciones chilenas a China (17,000 contenedores previstos para 2024/25) y podría hacer perder el pico de ventas del Festival de Primavera, exponiendo vulnerabilidades en la cadena de suministro global de perecederos.

CMA CGM launched BIGEX 3 and BIGEX 4 to enhance India-Middle East-Red Sea connectivity, with inaugural sailings on Feb 23 and 25. Following Hapag-Lloyd’s “Gemini” alliance with Maersk, CMA CGM terminated their VSA and is independently redefining its India growth strategy.