Due to the India-Pakistan crisis, MSC is using Colombo as a new transhipment centre, CMA CGM is sending some ships back to Pakistan, while Maersk is actively reviewing its routes to ensure all regulations are adhered to, with possible consequences being diversions or schedule changes, according to transport and logistics company IFB.
While several ships are currently waiting outside harbours with cargo for both India and Pakistan, shipping companies have requested authorities to provide quick information.
All MSC cargo is being rerouted to Colombo and it has received official clearance from India. Stranded cargo from Pakistan may be picked up in Mundra and Nhava Sheva. However, new cargo from Pakistan will no longer be accepted in Indian ports, Hong Kong-headquartered IFB said.
CMA CGM’s cargo will be unloaded in Pakistan and shipped again later, but the shipping company said a feeder service to a nearby transhipment centre is possible.
If the restrictions last longer, Maersk may make structural changes to its maritime network. This could mean adjusting routes, hubs or even the entire East-West network.
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd continue to accept bookings via Salalah with no disruptions or changes.
The situation intensified due to an earlier strike in Pakistan. It was triggered by government plans to build new canals along the Indus River. This blocked important transport routes between the north and south of the country.
Various shipments arrived late at the port of Karachi and were not loaded onto the booked ships. Instead, they were rebooked onto other ships. As these ships have not called at the port of Karachi since the trade restrictions were imposed, many containers are still in the harbour.
The current lack of ship capacity is leading to rebookings, delays and rollovers, IFB added.
