Blank sailings on Asia–Europe routes continue into May, with delays at London Gateway persisting. Escalating tensions between India and Pakistan are beginning to cause disruption to regional supply chains. Meanwhile, in a historic week, the UK has signed two new trade agreements – an encouraging step forward for UK trade relations.

Sea Freight Services

Blank sailings on Asia–Europe routes are continuing through May as carriers maintain efforts to align capacity with seasonal demand. While this may result in short-notice schedule changes, overall service levels remain steady. 

In Europe, minor delays are being reported at some ports. In the UK, London Gateway is still experiencing congestion, with backlogs taking time to clear. This is having a knock-on effect on landside operations, with slower turnaround times for hauliers. That said, the picture is far more positive than it was three months ago, when vessel delays were significantly more widespread. Felixstowe and Southampton continue to operate as normal.

India–Pakistan Tensions Impact Regional Supply Chains

Tensions between India and Pakistan are beginning to disrupt regional supply chains and shipping operations. Both countries have now prohibited the import and export of goods originating in, or destined for the other, if those goods transit through the opposing country’s territory. In response, shipping lines have adjusted their services to and from both countries.

In India, port security has been heightened following an official advisory, with increased measures now in place across all ports, terminals and vessels. According to local sources, operations at the ports of Kandla and Mundra will be suspended from 6:00PM IST to daylight hours until further notice. This is expected to lead to backlogs and operational delays, and some carriers are already skipping or diverting sailings to neighbouring ports as a result.

In Pakistan, the situation has led to the introduction of an Emergency Operational Recovery Surcharge on all exports and imports. Carriers have stated this measure is in response to the operational disruption caused by regional geopolitical developments.

Air freight is also being affected, with temporary airspace restrictions over northern Pakistan prompting some airlines to reroute flights, potentially causing minor delays to affected services.

This remains a fast-changing situation. We will continue to monitor developments closely and update customers as needed.

US–China Trade Dispute

The standoff between the US and China continues to impact Asia–US services, with a significant drop in demand across key transpacific routes. In response, carriers have announced widespread blank sailings as retailers pause non-essential shipments and adopt a wait-and-see approach.

There may be some movement soon, with discussions between the two governments reportedly set to begin this weekend. While no immediate resolution is expected, the talks represent a step forward and may help provide greater clarity for businesses currently holding back on orders.

UK Agrees Two Trade Deals

The UK has signed two trade agreements this week, one with India and another with the United States, marking a positive development for future global trade.

  • UK–India Free Trade Agreement: After over three years of negotiations, the UK and India have signed a landmark free trade agreement. Key provisions include significant tariff reductions on goods such as British whisky, gin, and cars, and Indian textiles and food products. The agreement also opens new services markets and improves customs procedures.
  • UK–US Trade Deal: The UK has become the first nation to secure a post-tariff-era trade deal with the US under President Donald Trump. The agreement removes US tariffs on UK steel, aluminium, and car exports, while the UK will ease tariffs on US ethanol and beef.

While the full details and implementation timelines of these agreements are yet to be finalised, they represent positive steps for UK trade relations.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your shipment, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 01376 533039 or email [email protected].