Operations are resuming across China following the Golden Week closure, while industrial action at key European ports has caused minor disruption to supply chains.
Golden Week Holiday Period Ends
China’s Golden Week holiday has now ended, and manufacturing and port operations are gradually resuming. While activity is picking up, it may take a little time for production and exports to return to normal levels.
To balance reduced export volumes during the holiday, carriers implemented blank sailings through mid-October, with several lines now extending these cancellations until the end of the month. Further blank sailings remain possible as carriers continue to adjust capacity to match available volumes.
As schedules normalise, some short-notice changes and minor delays should still be expected. We will continue to monitor carrier updates and share any developments that may affect your shipments.
Strike Action at European Ports
Industrial action at the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges this week caused some short-term disruption to cargo movements across North Europe. In Rotterdam, dock workers staged a 48-hour strike led by Dutch union FNV over pay, while in Belgium, harbour pilots at Antwerp-Bruges restricted operations to regular office hours in protest against pension reforms.
The strikes have been relatively limited in impact and are expected to conclude later today, with port operations gradually returning to normal. We continue to monitor developments, though the risk of further disruption currently appears low.
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].
