JUPITER SEA & AIR SERVICES PVT. LTD, EGMORE – CHENNAI, INDIA.

 

E-MAIL : Robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in   Mobile : +91 98407 85202

 

Corporate News Letter for  Monday -  October  21,  2024.

 

Today’s Exchange Rates

 

CURRENCY

PRICE

CHANGE

%CHANGE

OPEN

PREV.CLOSE

DAY's LOW-HIGH

USD/INR

84.07

-0.010002

-0.011896

84.06

84.08

84.055- 84.0825

EUR/USD

1.086

0.0029

0.26775

1.0831

1.0831

1.0825- 1.0865

GBP/INR

109.5843

0.357994

0.327754

109.4588

109.2263

109.4514- 109.8786

EUR/INR

91.169

-0.1269

-0.138998

91.115

91.2959

91.0762- 91.2159

USD/JPY

149.707

-0.503006

-0.334868

150.21

150.21

149.585- 150.286

GBP/USD

1.3041

0.003

0.230576

1.3011

1.3011

1.3008- 1.3071

DXY Index

103.653

-0.171997

-0.165661

103.804

103.825

103.588- 103.804

JPY/INR

0.5609

0.0004

0.071355

0.5597

0.5605

0.5595- 0.5614

///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

Maersk, Hapag bosses reinforce confidence in Gemini alliance service reliability targets

At the Xeneta Summit in Amsterdam, leaders from Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk showcased their strong commitment to the forthcoming Gemini Cooperation, emphasizing their goal to achieve 90% service reliability.

This new alliance, which includes two of the five largest ocean carriers, is set to commence operations on February 1 next year, adopting a hub and spoke model for mainliner and transshipment services to boost reliability.

Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd, and Kenni Skotte, Vice President and Head of Ocean Network Product at Maersk, participated in a panel to discuss Gemini’s strategy to attain 90% reliability, notably-high compared to the current industry average of 53%.

Skotte expressed optimism about reaching their ambitious reliability target, acknowledging current market skepticism due to lower average reliability score. He predicted that by next year, they would demonstrate the effectiveness of their strategy.

The Gemini Cooperation plans to enhance its network with 57 services across seven trades, emphasizing increased and structured use of their controlled transshipment hubs to improve service stability and reliability. Both leaders highlighted the strategic design of their operations to mitigate delays and their ripple effects across services.

Despite potential routing changes due to conflict in the Red Sea, with initial plans to navigate around the Cape of Good Hope, both Jansen and Skotte confirmed that these adjustments would not compromise their reliability target.

Hapag-Lloyd’s boss pointed out the flexibility of their network to handle different scenarios while maintaining leading reliability standards.

Skotte concluded that their innovative network model aims to set a new high standard for the industry by significantly boosting schedule reliability for their customers’ benefit.

Vizhinjam port set to launch commercial operations on December 3


The government is preparing to move forward with the commissioning of the first phase of the Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) for commercial operation on December 3, following successful trial runs. A final decision will be made in consultation with Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd, said officials.

They said that port operations have advanced significantly during the trial period, and an announcement regarding the commissioning is expected soon. The trial operations of the port began in July with the successful berthing of a mothership named San Fernando.

Since then, the port has welcomed 20 ships. VISL, India’s first semi-automated container port, demonstrated its capabilities by unloading over 60,503 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units) of cargo from the ship. The port set a new record by handling 10,330 TEUs in a single vessel exchange with MSC Anna, one of the largest container ships in the world, earlier this month. The most recent ship to berth was MSC Lisbon, which departed the port on Sunday.

The VISL is equipped with eight ship-to-shore cranes, including the largest in the category (1620 Tons) in the country and 23 yard cranes. The ship-to-shore cranes are used to life the containers from the ship and place them in the terminal track.

Additionally, the port has received regular International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Certification, solidifying its status as a secure hub for global maritime trade. ISPS approval is mandatory for the service of international vessels.

Recently, the port also obtained its navigational chart from the National Hydrographic Office, which serves as an authoritative guide containing safety information and other documents for ships.

 

DP World Nhava Sheva welcomes India Red Sea service with an inaugural call of M.V. FOLK Jeddah


DP World, a leading global provider of smart end-to-end supply chain solutions welcomed the maiden call of the vessel M.V. Folk Jeddah at its Nhava Sheva International Container Terminal (NSICT). This maiden voyage marked the commencement of the India Red Sea Service (IRS).

 

This new service will strengthen connectivity between key ports in India and contribute to enhanced trade flows across the Middle East. The IRS service’s port rotation includes: Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Jeddah, and Salalah, providing vital links to India’s two of the largest major ports to along its route.

 

By reducing transit time and improving access to major ports, the new route will further support strong trade link for bilateral trade between the Middle East and India, promoting efficient movement of goods.

 

DPA Breaks Two New Records



The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 75 million metric tons (MMT) in cargo handling in this fiscal till date. This remarkable feat marks the fastest-ever achievement of such a milestone in India's maritime sector, showcasing the port's efficiency and growth. 

 

DPA Chairman congratulated all stakeholders, port users, trade unions, port officials, employees, and workers for their unwavering support and cooperation in making this achievement possible. In addition to the record-breaking cargo handling, DPA also welcomed the largest-ever container vessel to its berths.

 

The MV Mundra Express, with a length of 350 meters and a capacity of 10,000 TEUs, signifies a major step forward in enhancing India's maritime capabilities.  The berthing of the MV Mundra Express underscores Kandla Port's ability to handle larger vessels, thereby boosting its competitive- ness and attracting more trade. This achievement also reflects the port's ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure and improve its operational efficiency.

 

As India’s largest port, Kandla plays a crucial role in the country’s economic growth. The port’s recent achievement demonstrate its commitment to excellence and its potential to further contribute to India’s maritime sector.

 

CMA CGM group’s new inland depot facility in Mundra expected to handle approximately 155,000 TEUs annually



The CMA CGM Group, a global leader in shipping and logistics, has further strengthened its foothold in India by inaugurating a new inland depot facility in Mundra, Gujarat.

 

The cutting-edge depot spans 4 hectares and was inaugurated by Mr Atit Mahajan (Managing Director, CMA CGM India) and Mr Jean Vanmalle (Vice President, CMA CGM Inland Services ) in a grand ceremony. The inauguration was also attended by key industry representatives, local officials, and trade bodies. 

 

This new inland container depot (ICD) in Mundra is anticipated to enhance CMA CGM’s inland logistics capabilities at Mundra Port, thereby, meeting international standards to cater to the growing demands of customers.

 

The facility, with its cutting-edge facilities, is expected to handle approximately 155,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. This strategic development aligns with Mundra Port’s impressive growth trajectory, which saw a 34% volume increase in the fiscal year 2023-24, reinforcing its status as one of India’s largest and fastest-growing ports.



India, Russia discuss new initiatives for Northern Sea Route

 



India and Russia last week discussed a wide range of issues, including the training of Indian sailors for polar navigation and joint projects for Arctic shipbuilding, at the first meeting of their working group for cooperation on the Northern Sea Route, according to a statement from the Russian side. 


The decision to establish a working group on the Northern Sea Route under the bilateral intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, scientific, technical and cultural cooperation was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow in July. 

 

The first meeting of the working group, held in New Delhi on October 10, discussed several issues, including targets for Indian and Russian cargo transit along the route, joint projects for Arctic shipbuilding, and possible training of Indian sailors for polar navigation, the Russian statement said. 

 

The working group drafted a memorandum of understanding between the governments of India and Russia for the “development of cooperation in cargo shipping in the waters of the Northern Sea Route”, the statement said.

 

The Northern Sea Route will help India meet its requirements for coal, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), Fertilizers and other container cargo. Besides, Indian public sector companies such as ONGC are invested in oil and gas assets in Sakhalain and Tomsk region of Siberia.

 

The corridor can help them bring equity oil to Indian ports instead of selling the same due to transportation issue, the second official said.

 

 

///                   Air Cargo News            ///


Air Incheon becomes IATA member



Air Incheon has become the first cargo airline in the Republic of Korea to obtain full membership of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The airline said it was awarded the certification on October 8.

This follows the airline being awarded IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification on April 5, after passing an assessment evaluating its operational safety and quality against international standards. Seung-Hwan Lee, chief executive of Air Incheon, said: “We are honored to officially become the sixth IATA member airline in South Korea.

This achievement is an important milestone in Air Incheon’s growth and solidifies our commitment to providing world-class air cargo solutions.

Starting from July 01, 2025, Air Incheon will also take over and integrate Asiana Airline’s Cargo business.  In June, it was announced that Air Incheon had been named as the preferred bidder for the sale of Asiana’s cargo business as part of Korean Air’s acquisition of Asiana Airlines.

The airline expects the acquisition to expand its network in both domestic and international cargo markets and the IATA membership to support this expansion. “Air Incheon plans to successfully lead the integration of Asiana’s cargo operation by 2024” said the airline.

DHL Express lights up diwali with up to 50% off for India's international shipments



DHL Express, the global leader in international express services, is adding to the festive cheer of Diwali by offering customers discounts on international and domestic outbound shipments.

This limited-time offer, valid until 02nd November, 2024, allows customers to share festive greetings and gifts with their loved ones across the world while enjoying up to 50% off on international shipments and up to 40% off on domestic shipments.

Visit express-resources.dhl.com/Diwali2024_DHLExpress.html to receive the promotion code and avail the offer. As one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals, Diwali, the festival of light, is an occasion for families to come together and exchange sweets and gifts. DHL Express recognizes the importance of togetherness during these times.

It aims to bring loved ones together despite being miles apart, by providing customers with reliable and cost-effective shipping solutions. Customers can enjoy up to 50% off on international shipments weighing between 3 kg and 25 kg; while a 40% discount is offered on domestic shipments weighing between 2kg and 10kg. The offer is available at over 650 DHL Express service points across India.


Cargolux renews partnership with Unilode




Luxembourg-based cargo airline Cargolux and Unit Load Device (ULD) provider Unilode Aviation Solutions have renewed their longstanding partnership. Cargolux first awarded the management of its ULD fleet to Unilode in 2009.

Unilode, which now has a fleet of 172,000 ULDs, provides a dedicated customer success management team based in Luxembourg, plus network planning through its operations control centre in Bangkok. Maintenance and repairs are undertaken at 50 Maintenance, Repair, and Operation (MRO) facilities worldwide. 

Unilode said its pooling concept and digital capabilities will further support Cargolux through its new digital developments such as the E-ULD app and customer portal.

Joep Brujis, Sr. VP Global Logistics, Cargolux said “Unilode’s continuous support and ULD management expertise has played a pivotal role in ensuring that Cargolux has the ability and agility to meet our everyday ULD needs”.

Ross Marino, CEO Unilode added “We are delighted to extend our longstanding partnership with Cargolux and their trust in Unilode team and our services makes us extremely proud”.

Shippers told to delay air cargo tenders until after peak season turmoil


Air cargo shippers have been told they should delay their 2025 tenders until after what is expected to be a tumultuous peak season. 

In a series of recommendations on how to manage current market conditions, Xeneta chief airfreight officer Niall van de Wouw said companies should make sure terms and conditions (T&Cs) are firmed up, avoid air hubs sensitive to the e-commerce boom, take advantage of the lack of backhaul demand, utilise data and delay tenders to avoid the upcoming peak season. 

“Current market sentiment influences both sides of the negotiating table and vendors will understandably use the peak season turmoil to paint a gloomier picture for 2025,” he said on the latter point. 

“Recency bias gives greater importance to the most recent event, so both shippers and vendors discussing the market in 2025 are going to be influenced by what is happening around them in the here and now.

“As long as you have your T&Cs in place, you can bide your time and wait out the storm. The market may look very different in early 2025 and you will be much better placed to enter negotiations with clarity and decisiveness”.  On T&Cs, van de Wouw said that if these are agreed and in place it will avoid “moving goalposts” and allow both sides to work in partnership to navigate the expected peak season storm.

“A storm is coming for the air freight market…”


Storm clouds are gathering as the air freight market heads towards what is expected to be an extremely challenging year-end peak season, according to the latest update from Xeneta. 

"The storm has been building since Q42023 when a surge in demand resulting from the Red Sea Crisis and massive growth in ecommerce in China took shippers by surprise. Since then, the market has witnessed spiralling freight rates in many Asian air cargo corridors – even during the traditionally slacker summer period. 

"The full force of the storm is yet to hit but global dynamic load-factor – Xeneta’s measurement of capacity versus cargo flown - is already four percentage points higher than 2023 with freight rates out of Asia Pacific up 25-40 percent. When the storm arrives, there are serious concerns whether air supply chains will be able to meet demand, leaving shippers in a precarious position."

How will the storm hit?

In August, outbound China e-commerce trade value hit its second highest level on record, falling just 7% short of the all time high of USD 8.7 Billion in December 2023 (Source : China Custom), the update added.

“E-commerce volumes out of China during the upcoming peak season should be expected to set new records as consumers in the West look to the Far East for low cost goods in the run up to Christmas and New Year.

“Meanwhile, conflict in Red Sea is still impacting ocean container services, meaning the mode shift to air freight will remain and add to the perfect storm”.  With the expected surge in Air freight rates, airlines will redeploy capacity to the most profitable trades as Qatar Airways and Air France KLM have done recently by cancelling flights to Latin America and putting them on Asian routes where there is massive e-commerce demand.

“This will result in reduced capacity to and from Latin America & Africa to the benefit of Asian markets, but to the detriment of shippers on the secondary corridors where there will likely be an inflationary impact on air freight rates”.

China's ecommerce giants revamp strategy to get round new US rules


The ecommerce titans are quickly adapting their business models in the face of greater regulatory oversight and heavy competition.

Executive action, announced by the White House last month, to tighten scrutiny of ecommerce and de minimis shipments has triggered changes by Chinese platforms – although implementation of some new rules has been delayed. 

Law firm Sandler, Travis & Roseberg last week noted the plan to reject “vague cargo descriptions” in Air Cargo Advance Screening submissions would be postponed until 12 November. 

US Customs & Border Protection (CBP) said it would extend the ‘warning period’ – an email is sent pointing out ‘vague’ descriptions such as “gift”, “parts” or “daily necessities”. After 12 November, the warnings stop and shipments described like that will be rejected. 


“This is a big revenue opportunity for Temu. Amazon earned $140 bn in fees from 3rd party sellers. It will be interesting to see how this plays out, but one third party sellers. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out, but one thing is clear: increase competition in the 3rd party seller space is a win for US SMB ecommerce retailers”.

The news comes as Temu, according to data from Earnest Analytics, saw a 25% fall in shopper activity in August, compared with January.

Amazon, meanwhile is copying Temu’s strategy and is developing a direct to consumer from China option, as well as promoting its fulfilment by Amazon service, which it claims cost two-thirds less than deliver services.


 I hope you have enjoyed reading the above news letter.                                                    

Robert Sands

Joint Managing Director

 

Jupiter Sea & Air Services Pvt Ltd

Casa Blanca, 3rd Floor

11, Casa Major Road, Egmore

Chennai – 600 008. India.

GST Number : 33AAACJ2686E1ZS.

Tel : + 91 44 2819 0171 / 3734 / 4041

Fax : + 91 44 2819 0735

Mobile : + 91 98407 85202

E-mail : robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in

Website : www.jupiterseaair.com

Branches  : Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Tuticorin.

Associate Offices : New Delhi, Kolkatta, Cochin & Hyderabad.

 

 

Thanks  to  :  Container  News,  Indian Seatrade  &  Air Cargo News. 

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