Global Aperture

Due to shallower waters caused by an ongoing drought, the Panama Canal will impose expanded restrictions on the largest ships crossing the trade passage, requiring them to carry less cargo or shed weight. The restrictions are expected to impact shipping flow and route costs. Ahead of a key UN meeting on July 3, member nations of International Maritime Organization such as Denmark and the Marshall Islands are pushing for a global carbon dioxide emissions levy on shipping, aiming to garner support for the measure at an upcoming meeting of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The levy would provide financial resources to tackle climate change and reduce emissions from the shipping sector.

Americas

USA: While tensions at US West Coast ports have been temporarily abated following a tentative labor agreement, US lawmakers have reacted with legislation targeting union workers who disrupt port operations. The bill would amend the National Labor Relations Act and the Labor Management Relations Act of 1947 to deter labor slowdowns, prohibit labor organizations from blocking port modernization, and define maritime labor slowdowns as unfair labor practices, with potential damages to be paid by unions found in violation.

Asia-Pacific

India: APM Terminals Pipavav in India has resumed landside operations and rail yard activity following the improvement in weather conditions after Cyclone Biparjoy. The port is gradually assessing the extent of the damage caused by the cyclone, while major carriers serving Indian container trades have made schedule adjustments due to the storm's impact on port operations.

Korea: South Korean exports recorded a year-on-year gain this month— the first since last summer, signaling a potential improvement in global trade according to some experts. The increase in exports, driven by car and shipping-related sectors, offers an early indication that the slowdown in world demand might be easing.

Europe, Middle East & Africa

Germany: Low water levels in the Rhine River are already impacting trade as levels at key points are below the seasonal norm. Barges are limited in their carrying capacity and experts anticipate that this year's water levels may be worse than last year's, which severely disrupted trade. In response, barge operators have begun imposing surcharges to offset the economic impact of the river’s reduced capacity.

Netherlands: Cargo associations in the Netherlands are pushing back on the Dutch government's plan to reduce slots at Schiphol Airport, stating that it is politically driven and potentially illegal. While arguing that shrinking the airport will not address the real issue of aviation growth and will only move noise pollution across borders, representatives highlight the negative economic impact on cargo and the airport's importance for jobs and prosperity.

South Africa: Following an announcement on Friday that it would be updating its eFiling systems, South African Customs (South African Revenue Services - SARS) are experiencing intermittent issues with their Customs processing platform. According to KWE sources, this is resulting in delays and potential charges. Top of Form

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