A series of blanked sailings by major container shipping lines are disrupting India’s export-import trades, with carriers citing “operational constraints” as the primary reason. The cancellations, affecting key routes connecting India with Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, are leading to container space shortages and schedule uncertainty for shippers.
Industry sources say the disruptions stem from vessel deployment imbalances, ongoing port congestion at transshipment hubs, and slower turnaround times. Exporters, particularly those shipping perishable and time-sensitive cargo, have raised concerns over mounting delays and rising freight costs.
Freight forwarders warn that if the trend continues through November, it could further strain supply chains ahead of the peak shipping season. Carriers, meanwhile, are working to rebalance schedules and restore reliability across affected corridors.