In the time leading up to the festive national holiday we have seen a significant increase in sailings. As a result, businesses experienced various challenges in reserving their sailings due to the high demand for capacity and equipment.
Now that the Chinese festivities have begun, we expect that all operations out of China will be suspended. Following the holiday there will be a surge in demand. Added to the constraint on capacity and equipment, suppliers also take time to ramp up on production after the break – potentially resulting in delays on goods availability.
Importers must plan in accordance with post-holiday delays.
Shippers experience extreme levels of uncertainty due to the Trump administration.
The US office’s threatened 10% increase in tariffs on imports from China, from as early as this month, has had a major influence on global sea freight.
This change will likely trigger a surge in imports from China to the USA. Thus, shipping lines will naturally realign sailing schedules toward more lucrative trade routes, all while the conditions at the Red Sea continue to exacerbate global traffic.
Consequently, we must prepare for potential sea freight capacity challenges in South Africa as an average of 7 days' delay at the Durban port persists due to congestion and equipment availability.
Current delays at South African ports
Durban | Gqeberha (PE) | Cape Town | |||||||
Pier 1: 5-6 days | PECT: 1-2 days | CTCT: 1-2 days | |||||||
Pier 2: 6-8 days | NCT: 1-2 days | MPT: 1-2 days | |||||||
Durban Point: 2 days |
Despite existing issues, Transnet is demonstrating its commitment to improving service levels.
Durban Port recently took delivery of nine gantry cranes. These should come into full service by May 2025 and will alleviate equipment constraints, reducing the Durban port delays.
Four straddle carriers have already been deployed at Pier 2 which signifies a noteworthy advancement for the Port of Durban, demonstrating the collaborative effort of its workforce and establishing a promising outlook for the future. This has led to an improvement in truck turnaround times at the port.
Starting April 2025, vessels visiting South African ports solely for bunkering, provisioning, water, or a combination of these services, with a stay of less than 48 hours, will enjoy a 60% reduction in port tariffs. This forward-thinking decision aims to establish South Africa as a leading maritime hub, fostering growth and enhancing competitiveness within the industry.
Current delays at ports around the world
China | Singapore | UK | USA | India | |||||
Port | Days | Port | Days | Port | Days | Port | Days | Port | Days |
Ningbo | 2 | Singapore | 1 | Felixstowe | 4 | Los Angeles | 2 | Haldia | 6 |
Shanghai | 2 | Belfast | 3 | Long Beach | 1 | Tuticorin | 6 | ||
Shekou | 2 | Portbury | 11 | New York | 3 | Kolkata | 5 | ||
Qingdao | 1 | London G. | 3 | Charleston | 2 | Mangalore | 14 | ||
Liverpool | 4 | Savannah | 7 | ||||||
Philadelphia | `17 |
Note: The typical vessel routing from the far east is via Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Singapore (11-day port delay) before arrival in South Africa.

Air freight demand continues to increase
Fuelled by the growth of e-commerce and disruptions in ocean freight, air freight has become a popular option among importers. The Chinese national holiday in late January 2025 has increased the airfreight activity. As a result of this surge in demand, the global air cargo spot rate is steadily increasing.
Our expert analysis of global logistics enabled successful supply chain solutions for importers
Throughout 2024, we advised readers and our clients on how to navigate global developments based on our data and wealth of logistics experience. These clients enjoyed a strong supply chain through inclement weather, political instability and port congestion around the world.
Our team has a wealth of experience and capability and has assisted our clients during the festive period. From clearing and tariffing to arranging for cheaper alternative storage solutions for clients during the closed periods; our import controllers also guided clients through demurrage days.
Importers are urged to plan ahead for 2025 as global port congestion remains a concern – partnering with us unlocks our operations team that will keep you ahead of the delay curve.
We are an import partner that stays updated on market developments; and offer importers guidance and solutions to effectively navigate logistical challenges. We combine our logistic expertise with trade finance solutions to ensure a smooth and reliable supply chain for your business.
Current market rates for the Shanghai - Durban shipping route
Container Type | Rate Sentiment | As at 23/09/2023 | Current | % Change | |||||
20 Ft. | High – Short Term | $1,661 | $3,250 | +96% | |||||
40 Ft. | High – Short Term | $1,909 | $4,050 | +112% |
Current market rates for 20/40 ft. containers compared to prior year (source: xeneta.com)
Current rate validities
Current Rate Validities are bi-weekly and monthly depending on market capacities & ocean carrier. Rates levels are displaying decreases, we anticipate the trend to continue into February. Market Rate levels are dependant on volumes of cargo being imported from Chinese main ports after Chinese New Year. Depending on the demand and if there are large backlogs, Ocean carriers will possibly propose potential increases or GRI’s. (Source: Xeneta)

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