Tugboat operator Svitzer was directed by Fair Work Commission to cancel planned lock-out of employees due to significant damage to Australian economy.

Analysis – EU Emission Trading System data converted to shipping results in €90 per ton of emission or €69 per TEU (20’GP) on transatlantic voyage.

IMO carbon intensity regulations may trigger modal shift from ocean shipping to land transport due to improved emission savings for that mode of transport.

China – Australia ocean services continue to be affected by overcapacity and lack of demand. Empty container yards in several Chinese port cities are now refusing to accept returns and anecdotal evidence points to containers parked on road sites.

Zhonghu (large Chinese coastal shipping line) begins taking delivery of 18 4,600TEU vessels as container freight market weakens.

A Singaporean fumigation treatment plant was suspended from operating and issuing BMBS treatment certificates due to issue with supervision and quality control. Certificates issued in November for shipments due to arrive in Australia are invalid and shipments will have to undergo renewed treatment on arrival.

Israel flag carrier ZIM is redeploying 9 container vessels as it axes transpacific loop due to lack of cargo.

Asia-Pacific year-on-year air cargo demand dropped by more than 10% and with increased capacity available, average load factors are down to 64%. Air volumes to/from U.S.A. continue to weaken with no peak season in sight yet.

Ocean carriers discount spot rates but steep rises in cost of bunker and operating expenses suggest these rate levels are not sustainable. Bunker costs are up 71%, equipment and repositioning costs are up 27%

US Rail stoppage was avoided as US HoR imposes terms to end stalemate in negotiations.

Airfreight rates are easing further as traffic volumes decline.

China – USA -52%, China – Europa -35% as compared with 2021