China Shipping Update - Market Conditions & Disruptions

Freight rates from China have been on the rise in recent weeks, with shipping lines continuing to issue notices regarding General Rate Increases (GRIs), Rate Restorations, and Peak Season Surcharges. While some of these adjustments have taken effect, many have not, and the rate environment remains highly dynamic. Carriers are now adjusting rates on a per-sailing basis, rather than the more typical twice-monthly updates, making it challenging to predict pricing with any certainty.
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As we move closer to the Christmas peak season, further rate increases are anticipated. However, the overall market remains soft, and current demand for space and equipment is not particularly strong. In response, carriers are actively managing capacity through measures such as blank sailings and other strategies to support rate levels and balance supply with demand.
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Operational delays are also affecting shipments from China. Port congestion and adverse weather conditions have caused significant disruptions, with recent typhoons prompting temporary suspensions at major ports including Shanghai and Ningbo. These weather events have also led to road flooding and warehouse closures, compounding the delays.
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Additionally, we are seeing a growing number of port omissions as carriers attempt to recover lost time and maintain sailing schedules. These ongoing changes highlight the importance of staying flexible and planning ahead during this unpredictable period in the global supply chain.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep you informed of any major developments.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Season Approaching

This is a reminder that the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season is about to begin once again. The upcoming season will apply to shipments departing between 1st September and 31st May, and treatment requirements will be enforced for cargo originating from designated BMSB-risk countries. If your goods are being shipped from one of these affected countries during this period, it is essential that they undergo the appropriate treatment to comply with Australian biosecurity regulations.
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A detailed notice outlining the specific requirements, affected countries, and treatment methods will be distributed shortly, once all final details for the new season have been confirmed by the relevant authorities.
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In the meantime, we encourage all importers to start planning ahead to ensure compliance and to avoid delays.

China Golden Week Holiday

A friendly early reminder that China’s National Day Golden Week will take place from 1st to 8th October 2025. During this time, factories, warehouses, and many businesses across China will close for the national holiday.

As we approach this period, we anticipate increased pressure on space and equipment availability as many shippers rush to move cargo before operations shut down. Additionally, carriers are expected to introduce blank sailings, which may further disrupt schedules and potentially lead to rate increases.

To avoid delays and ensure your shipments stay on track, we strongly recommend planning ahead and booking early. Getting your cargo scheduled in advance will help reduce the risk of disruption during this busy time.

Trade & Tariff Update: UAE Agreement and U.S. Tariffs

FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS
While there are still no new developments regarding the long-anticipated Free Trade Agreement with Europe, there has been some important progress elsewhere. Legislation has recently been introduced to Parliament for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates. This marks a significant step toward strengthening trade and investment ties between Australia and the UAE. If passed, this agreement is expected to offer mutual benefits for both imports and exports, and we’ll continue to monitor its progress closely. Further updates will be provided as more details become available.

U.S. TARIFFS
As widely reported, the United States has introduced a base rate tariff of 10% on most Australian goods exported to the U.S. In addition, certain commodities, including steel, aluminium, copper, automobiles, light trucks, and some automotive parts will face even higher tariff rates. Despite the existing Australia–U.S. Free Trade Agreement, these new tariffs will still apply to exports from Australia to the U.S. However, it’s important to note that imports from the U.S. into Australia will remain duty free under the terms of the current agreement in place. We recommend that affected exporters review their supply chain and pricing strategies accordingly, and we’re available to assist with any questions or customs advice you may need.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Update

We’ve received important advice that throughout August, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), in cooperation with State Police, will be conducting container safety and compliance checks at major ports across Australia.
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The primary focus of these inspections will be to ensure that loads inside containers are properly restrained. Trucks leaving container terminals will be targeted, with enforcement officers checking for compliance with national load restraint requirements.
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This serves as a timely reminder for importers to ensure that their overseas suppliers are meeting Australian load restraint standards. It’s also vital that any communication outlining these requirements is documented and retained, as part of your due diligence obligations.
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Under the Chain of Responsibility (COR) legislation, importers can be held legally accountable if an incident occurs, particularly one involving an injury or fatality. Penalties can be severe, including substantial fines and possible jail time.
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The same level of responsibility applies to exporters within Australia. All cargo must be safely and securely restrained during the container loading process.
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If you have any concerns or need guidance on load restraint requirements, our team is here to assist.

Sydney Office Wins Small Business Award

We’re proud to share that our Sydney office was recently named Most Inclusive Employer at our local 2025 Small Business Awards ceremony!
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This recognition is a testament to the incredible culture our team has built, one that values diversity, fosters belonging, and ensures everyone feels welcome and supported.
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We're extremely proud of our staff, whose dedication and commitment to inclusivity made this achievement possible.

Office Space Available - Taren Point, Sydney

Just a quick update to let everyone know that we still have some office space available for lease in our building located in Taren Point, Sydney.
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While the warehouse space has already been fully leased, we currently have approximately 150 sqm of modern, open-plan office space still available. It’s a great opportunity for a business looking for a well-located and flexible office setup.
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As a bonus, discounted rates are available for existing customers.
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If you or someone you know might be interested, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for more details or to arrange a viewing

Office Space for Lease

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