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- Increased Attacks as Shipping Lines Start a Return to the Suez Canal and Red Sea. In June, commercial vessels began cautiously returning to the Suez Canal following a US-Houthi ceasefire that had eased Red Sea security concerns. However, two recent attacks—both confirmed by the Houthis and resulting in the sinking of both vessels—have reignited fears, with many of the crew members from one vessel, the Eternity C, still unaccounted for.
- European Congestion. Major shipping ports across Europe are experiencing increased congestion, with key terminals such as London Gateway, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Bremerhaven now operating at over 95% capacity. These ports are beginning to show signs of strain, raising concerns about potential delays and operational bottlenecks in the weeks ahead.
- Cargo at risk as suspected undeclared Dangerous Goods cause vessels to catch fire. Two recent vessel fires at sea, likely caused by undeclared dangerous goods, highlight the critical importance of accurate cargo declarations. Improperly identified hazardous materials can lead to unsafe stowage, chemical reactions, and serious safety risks onboard.
- Carriers Declaring PSS/RR for 1st August. Despite earlier announcements, proposed rate increases for July did not materialise due to a softening in market conditions. However, several major shipping lines have now issued formal notice of upcoming rate adjustments from North and South-East Asia, set to be implemented from 1st August.
- Reminder: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Season will Commence for Imports on:
- New & used target vehicles, machinery and parts exported from BMSB-risk countries.
- Sea containers exported from Italy during the season.
The season begins for vessels departing 01 Sept 2025 arriving into New Zealand before or on 30 April 2026.
For assistance or guidance during the season please do not hesitate to reach out to our Customer Care or Brokerage teams.
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/import/vehicles-machinery-parts/brown-marmorated-stink-bug-requirements-for-importers
- The US Tariff Update. Recently the 9th July deadline for the reinstatement of US President Trump’s tariffs passed. Trump sent out letters to leaders of 14 countries giving them an extension until 1st Aug to negotiate new deals or face the higher tariffs, ranging from 25-40%. New Zealand’s rate remains unchanged at 10%.
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Increased Attacks as Shipping Lines Start a Return to the Suez Canal and Red Sea
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Recently June saw the announcement of commercial ships gradually returning to the Suez Canal after a long period of avoiding the region due to security concerns. The return was influenced by a ceasefire agreement between the US and the Houthis, which led to a reduction in attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
However, hopes for a sustained return for shipping lines may now be off the cards again after two new attacks in the region ending a six-month period of relative calm. Both targeted vessels were reportedly sunk.
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for both of the attacks, stating that the Magic Seas was in breach of their declared ban on ships calling at Israeli ports. All 19 crew members of the Magic Seas were safely rescued by a passing merchant vessel.
Of the 21 people onboard the Eternity C, 8 crew have been confirmed rescued along with 2 security team. 4 people have been killed in the attack, leaving the fate of the remaining individuals in Houthi hands as they were taken hostage.
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Congestion at European Main Ports
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Our trading partners have reported significant congestion across major European ports, with key terminals such as London Gateway, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Bremerhaven now operating at over 95% capacity.
Inland transport infrastructure is also under pressure. Rail services are facing severe delays due to ongoing construction works and detours, while container trucking are experiencing extended wait times for deliveries and collections at terminal gates.
Additionally, low water levels on the Rhine and Elbe rivers have been disrupting inland barge movements, particularly to and from the western ports.
These challenges are contributing to widespread delays across vessels, barges, trucks, and trains, along with overcrowded container yards, last-minute routing changes, and restricted handling capacity.
As a result, additional costs such as demurrage, storage, detention, and congestion surcharges are increasingly unavoidable. Where applicable under Incoterms, these costs will need to be borne by the cargo owner.
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Cargo at Risk as Suspected Undeclared Dangerous Goods Cause Vessels to Catch Fire
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Recently we have witnessed two separate vessels spontaneously catch fire while at sea due to suspected undeclared dangerous goods. These incidents serve as a serious reminder of the importance of full and accurate cargo declarations.
All cargo—particularly Dangerous Goods—must be correctly identified and declared. Without proper classification, it is impossible to ensure safe stowage and handling. Many Dangerous Goods are incompatible with each other, and if stored incorrectly, accidental spills or leaks can trigger thermal reactions, potentially leading to self-ignition.
Compliance with declaration requirements is not only a regulatory obligation but a vital measure to protect vessels, crew, cargo, and the wider supply chain. 
Vessel: Maersk Frankfurt. Source: India Coast Guard
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Shipping Line Container Increases
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Despite earlier announcements, proposed rate increases for July did not materialise due to a softening in market conditions. However, several major shipping lines—including Cosco, PIL, ANL, MSC, Maersk and OOCL—have now issued formal notice of upcoming rate adjustments from North and South-East Asia. These will be applied in the form of a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) or Rate Restoration (RR), effective 1st August.
Cosco advise China USD$300/TEU. Japan USD$100/TEU. Korea USD$200/TEU. SE Asia USD$50/TEU.
PIL advise NE Asia USD$200/TEU. SE Asia USD$50.00/TEU.
ANL advise NE Asia USD$350/TEU.
MSC advise North and SE Asia USD$100/TEU.
Maersk advise Far East Asia and Taiwan USD$200/TEU. Effective 4th Aug and 18th Aug respectively.
OOCL advise NE Asia USD$275/TEU. Taiwan USD$100/TEU. Korea USD$200/TEU.
Please note that these are the initial notifications received, and the full extent of the increases may potentially be reduced or postponed once the 1st August deadline passes. Above amounts are based on General Purpose (GP) equipment only. Reefer (RE) and Non-operating Reefer (NOR) equipment may have higher or lower increases.
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