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Shipping lines cancel China sailings as Turkey closes borders

[ February 28, 2020   //   ]

The corona virus has led to about 105 cancelled sailings from Asia to Europe and North America reports the European Shippers Association, quoting a report by the Evofenedex shippers’ association in the Netherlands. The shipping industry is set to lose around $ 1 billion as a result.

Capacity dropped by 20-40% in the period 20 January to 10 February 2020 compared to the same period last year, according to figures from shipping consultant Drewry but there are fears that the losses will increase even further, adds ESC.

Even those ships that have sailed for Europe have had a low load factor, Evofenedex. Containers have remained on terminals due to handling problems. It is calling on shipping companies to clearly communicate with their customers which containers have not been loaded as booked.

Meanwhile the International Road Transport Union said it was closely monitoring the status of border crossings in affected areas around the world, including the recent announcement by the Turkish authorities of their decision to close the country’s borders.

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