Ports

Typhoon Champi threatens to reverse East Asian port congestion gains

Congestion relief at East Asian ports faces potential disruption as Typhoon Champi approaches Taiwan's northeast coast. Maersk reported that vessel wait times along the east China coast have declined week-on-week, with the broader regional network stabilizing after earlier typhoon impacts. The carrier noted that operational conditions at East China ports have improved, though strong export demand continues straining capacity. However, maritime services provider Mas Oceans warned the incoming typhoon could create fresh operational challenges. Pilotage at the Changjiang Estuary has already been suspended. Vessel movement restrictions loom at multiple ports, with anticipated closures threatening to affect Zhejiang, Fujian and surrounding areas. The fresh weather system risks undoing recent recovery efforts as carriers work to restore schedules across the region's congested network.