Port of Yantian reopens
Yantian International Container Terminal (YICT) has fully reopened and resumed normal operations after an outbreak of COVID-19 caused it to shutdown in May, resulting in congestion and vessel diversions.
One of China’s biggest export gateways and busiest ports reopened at 00:00 on the 24th June after government restrictions were lifted. The port closed three berths on the 21st May to address a COVID-19 outbreak, which infected some of its workers.
All berths, including the West Terminal are open and have resumed normal operations, with the number of laden gate-in tractors expected to increase to 9,000 per day, and the pickup of empty containers and import containers resume normal operation.
The COVID-19 outbreak and subsequent congestion caused a caused a month of disruptions, with substantial numbers of vessels bypassing the port that, creating more global supply chain disruption, a surge in shipping rates. and congestion in the Shenzhen region.
Consequently, blank sailings increased by 300% in one month and industry experts have warned of ripple effects across the supply chain, with even best-case scenarios suggesting it could take several weeks to process the backlog of containers.
HUTCHISON PORTS (YICT) STATEMENT
With the full support of relevant government departments and on the premise of strict epidemic prevention, Hutchison Ports YANTIAN (YANTIAN) has taken proactive measures to steadily resume normal terminal operations.
Currently, COVID-19 has been effectively under control in the port area, and the operational capacity of the terminals have steadily recovered.
It is now decided that from 00:00 on June 24, YANTIAN will resume full operations.
1. All berths (including the Xigang operation area) will essentially resume normal operations.
2. The number of laden gate-in tractors will be increased to 9,000 per day, and the pickup of empty containers and import laden containers remain normal.
3. The arrangements of accepting export laden containers will resume normal with ETA – 7 (within 7 days of the vessel’s ETA).
Yantian Port will continue to strictly implement COVID-19 prevention and control measures and promote production in a safe and orderly manner. Hence that the problem of all terminals in South China (Yantian/ Shekou/ Nansha) will be gradually improved.
In addition, Nashan Terminal (NICT) has just announced the suspension of service this afternoon, slow operation or delay will occur accordingly. Either Yantian Terminal or Shekou Terminal will be suggested in case there is no service at Nashan Terminal, we will keep you informed of the status then.
While the Yantian situation may begin to ease over the coming weeks, port congestion continues across Southern China and in many other regions globally.
Our local teams continue to monitor the evolving situation, to deal with any challenges, mitigating their impact and providing alternative solutions where it is appropriate or necessary.
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like any further information regarding the situation in China, please don’t hesitate to contact Matt Fullard.
