The upcoming Lunar New Year holiday brings closure to commerce in China for a number of weeks. Carriers announce further blank sailings to manage supply and demand.
Chinese New Year Brings Extended Closures
Chinese New Year (CNY) falls next week on 29th January 2025. Businesses across China and Hong Kong are preparing for their annual extended holiday closures, which can last up to four weeks. While most factories have already begun winding down, the remaining few will start to do so today, with complete shutdowns during the festive period. Ports and customs will operate with reduced staffing, and the gradual reopening process means some factories won’t return to full capacity for a month.
As a result, customers should anticipate potential delays and disruption to container movements during this period.
Office Closure Periods
PFE’s partner offices in China will be closed for from 28th January to 4th February 2025.
PFE’s partner offices in Hong Kong will be closed from 29th January until 3rd February 2025.
PFE’s UK offices will remain open as usual.
Blank Sailings Post-CNY Announced
Carriers have announced additional blank sailings on Asia-Europe routes throughout February. These measures aim to balance the gap between planned supply and demand on these key routes. With capacity continually being withdrawn, we are experiencing potential challenges with schedules changing at the last minute. PFE is committed to ensuring supply chains are impacted as little as possible during this period.
We will keep you updated with any changes or impacts to the movement of your cargo as soon as information becomes available.
Wishing all our colleagues, customers and partners good health, happiness and prosperity in the Year of the Snake. Happy Chinese New Year!