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

 

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

 

 

Corporate News Letter for  Friday  October 17,  2025

Today’s Exchange Rates

CURRENCY▲	PRICE	CHANGE	%CHANGE	OPEN	PREV.CLOSE
USD/INR	87.82	0.260002	0.295189	87.84	88.08
EUR/USD	1.1686	0.0039	0.334844	1.1647	1.1647
GBP/INR	117.9956	0.4384	0.372925	117.9334	117.5572
EUR/INR	102.3893	0.058304	0.056911	102.4479	102.4476
USD/JPY	150.259	0.791	0.523668	151.05	151.05
GBP/USD	1.3427	0.0024	0.179067	1.3403	1.3403
DXY Index	98.596	0.196999	0.199405	98.667	98.793
JPY/INR	0.5806	0.0004	0.068838	0.5828	0.581

///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

Seven Islands Shipping Acquires Suezmax Tanker from Eastern Pacific

Indian shipping company Seven Islands Shipping has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of a 160,000-deadweight-ton (dwt) Suezmax tanker, the Century, from Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS), controlled by Idan Ofer.

The vessel, built in 2005 by Hyundai Heavy Industries, is one of only two Suezmax tankers currently owned by Seven Islands Shipping. The acquisition was reported on October 12, 2025. This move is part of Seven Islands Shipping's broader strategy to bolster its presence in the crude oil transportation sector. 

The company has been actively seeking Suezmax tonnage, as evidenced by its recent purchase of a 158,000-dwt Suezmax from Greek owner Tanker Ventures for approximately $40 million.

Founded in 2002, Seven Islands Shipping operates a diverse fleet that includes Suezmax, Medium Range (MR) Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) and Medium Gas Tankers (MGT). The company continues to focus on expanding its fleet to meet the growing demands of the global shipping industry.

U.S. Tariffs: Latest Developments

The global tariff environment remains volatile as 2025 draws to a close. Recent measures by the U.S. and China — including new port fees, higher tariffs, and export controls — have heightened uncertainty across supply chains. Businesses should continue monitoring policy changes and preparing for further trade disruptions.

U.S. and China implement previously announced reciprocal port fees amid escalating trade tensions: 16 October, 2025

The U.S. and China have begun charging new port fees on each other’s vessels, escalating maritime tensions and adding pressure to global freight flows. This follows announcement previously made by the U.S. on 17 April, and by China on October 10.

On 14 October, the United States and China each began implementing new port fees on vessels owned, operated, or flagged by the other country, signalling a renewed phase of trade friction between the world’s two largest economies.

Under the White House executive order “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” issued on 27 April, the U.S. Trade Representative has directed charges on Chinese-linked vessels as follows:

·        $50 per net ton for Chinese-owned or operated vessels arriving at a U.S. port, rising to $140 by April 2028.

·        $18 per net ton or $120 per container for Chinese-built vessels, rising to $33 per net ton or $250 per container by 2028.

·        Fees are capped at five times per year per vessel.

·        Long-term users of China-operated vessels carrying U.S. ethane and liquified petroleum gas (LPG) are exempt until 10 December.

China, in retaliation, announced levies on U.S.-linked vessels starting 14 October:

·        400 yuan ($56) per net ton for vessels owned or operated by U.S. companies or individuals, or U.S.-built or flagged ships.

·        Fees are capped at five trips per year and will rise to 1,120 yuan ($157) per net ton.

·        Exemptions apply to empty vessels entering Chinese shipyards for repair and Chinese-built ships.

China’s Ministry of Transport confirmed that Chinese-built vessels would be exempt from the new levies, while the U.S. measures are designed to reduce Chinese influence in global shipbuilding and maritime logistics. Both sides have indicated the fees will be collected at the first port of entry per voyage, or across the first five voyages within a year.

The reciprocal measures follow the U.S. announcement of potential 100% tariffs on Chinese imports and expanded export controls on critical materials, alongside China’s new restrictions on rare earth exports. Analysts note the developments could affect up to 15% of global tanker capacity and 11% of container vessels, raising costs and prompting route changes among major carriers.

Despite reassurances from both governments that dialogue remains possible, the introduction of these port fees has increased operational uncertainty for importers and exporters relying on transpacific trade.

U.S. & China To Implement Vessel Fees and Export Controls on Rare Earth Materials: October 13, 2025

Key Takeaways:

·        The United States has issued CSMS notices related to Section 301 vessel fees, though no carrier surcharges have yet been confirmed.

·        China has introduced reciprocal port fees for US vessels, which will come into effect.

·        China’s Ministry of Commerce has announced new export controls on rare-earth materials and technologies.

·        Woodland Group continues to monitor both markets and will advise clients of any emerging cost impacts.

Recent developments in U.S. and Chinese trade regulations may affect shipping and rare-earth-related exports. Woodland Group is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

United States – Vessel Fees:

The U.S. administration has issued CSMS notices regarding vessel fees under Section 301, signalling potential changes to cost structures for shipments arriving at U.S. ports. At this time, no additional carrier-imposed fees have been observed, and there is no confirmation of the proposed 100% tariffs on Chinese goods. Importers should continue to monitor official communications from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for guidance.

China – Vessel Fees and Export Controls:

Vessel Fees for U.S. Ships: The Ministry of Transport has announced the collection of special port fees for U.S. ships, mirroring recent U.S. actions under Section 301, effective 14 October onwards. Find out more here

 

Export Controls on Rare Earth Materials and Technologies:

·        Announcement No. 62 of 2025 implements export controls on rare-earth-related technologies. Find out more here

·        Announcement No. 61 of 2025 establishes export controls on relevant rare-earth items for overseas markets. Find out more here

These reciprocal policy measures underscore ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. While no immediate carrier surcharges have been identified, companies involved in trans-Pacific trade or dependent on rare-earth materials are encouraged to monitor potential cost implications and assess supply chain exposure.

U.S. Announces Proposed 100% Tariffs on Chinese Imports: 10th October, 2025

The U.S. administration has indicated plans to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports, potentially taking effect from 1 November 2025 or sooner. This proposed action follows China’s recent expansion of export controls on rare-earth metals, further heightening trade tensions between the two largest global economies.

Reports from Reuters and other reputable sources note that the measure has not yet been formally enacted through the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) or the Federal Register, meaning that the full product scope, potential stacking of tariffs, and exemptions remain to be confirmed. In addition, the administration has signalled plans to introduce new export controls on critical software bound for China, although official details have yet to be released.

If implemented, the 100% tariff would build on existing measures under Sections 232 and 301, potentially creating significant implications for U.S. importers of Chinese-origin technology, manufactured goods, and consumer products. Analysts suggest that the proposal could be part of ongoing US - China trade negotiations, but supply chain disruptions and increased costs could be substantial if enacted without exemptions or transitional measures.

While the proposal remains pending, importers are advised to monitor official communications from the USTR, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Department of Commerce for confirmation and guidance on implementation. Businesses should assess their exposure to Chinese-origin goods, particularly those already subject to Section 301 tariffs, review sourcing strategies and pricing models to anticipate potential cost increases, and track export control updates that may affect software, electronics, and dual-use items.

Bangladesh to Hand Over Three Major Container Terminals to Foreign Operators by December

Bangladesh will hand over operations of three key container terminals to foreign companies by December, Shipping Ministry Secretary Mohammad Yousuf announced. The terminals include Chattogram’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldia Terminal and Keraniganj’s Pangaon Inland Container Terminal.

Laldia will be leased for 30 years, while NCT and Pangaon will operate under 25-year contracts. Speaking at a seminar organised by the Economic Reporters Forum in Dhaka, Yousuf said negotiations are in the final stage.

“We will not compromise on national interests. Extensive talks are ongoing and we expect to finalise contracts by December,” he said, noting that similar models work in India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar.

He said foreign management would cut vessel waiting time – currently costing $15,000 per day – and improve cargo handling speed, lowering overall business costs. While service charges may see modest increases after decades of stagnation, faster turnaround would offset the impact, he added.

Yousuf said foreign operators would deploy modern scanners and streamline customs port co-ordination, reducing congestion and boosting trade efficiency. Increased ship traffic and investment are also expected.

Industry leaders urged continued incentives for a domestic shipowners and reforms in customs and shipbuilding tariffs to position Bangladesh as a regional maritime hub. DP World is among the operators under consideration, with Chittagong Dry Dock Ltd managing interim operations.

Pakistan Welcomes Largest Container Ship in Its History at Hutchison Ports Karachi

Pakistan has achieved a major maritime milestone as Hutchison Ports Pakistan in Karachi received the largest container ship in the country’s history, signaling growing global confidence in its port infrastructure and logistics capabilities.

The vessel, MSC Micol, operated by Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), measures 400 meters in length and has a capacity of 24,070 TEUs, making it one of the world’s most advanced ultra-large container ships. 

The berthing of MSC Micol marks the first time Pakistan has handled a next-generation vessel of this size, a capability long dominated by regional competitors such as India’s Mundra Port and Dubai’s Jebel Ali. 

Hutchison Ports Pakistan, the nation’s only deep-water terminal and a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports, said this achievement proves that Pakistan now has world-class infrastructure to serve the latest global shipping fleets operating on major Asia–Europe trade routes.

US Sanctions Three Indian Nationals, Shipping Firms for Facilitating Iran’s Oil Trade

The United States has sanctioned three Indian nationals and their shipping companies for assisting Iran in its oil trade, as part of a broader crackdown targeting 50 individuals, entities, and vessels, including a Chinese refinery and multiple traders. 

The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced that Soniya Shrestha and her India-based Vega Star Ship Management, Varun Pula and his Marshall Islands-based Bertha Shipping Inc., and Iyappan Raja and his Marshall Islands-based Evie Lines Inc. have been sanctioned. 

According to OFAC, ships owned by Bertha Shipping and Evie Lines allegedly transported millions of barrels of Iranian LPG to China, while a vessel operated by Vega Star reportedly carried Iranian LPG to Pakistan.

/////       AIR  CARGO   NEWS   /////

Hyderabad Airport Welcomes Giant Antonov An-124 Ruslan, Showcasing World-Class Cargo Capabilities

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) added another milestone to its growing reputation as one of India’s most advanced air cargo hubs by welcoming the Antonov An-124 Ruslan, one of the largest and heaviest cargo aircraft in the world.

The arrival of the aircraft not only drew the attention of aviation experts and enthusiasts but also demonstrated RGIA’s ability to handle highly complex and large-scale cargo operations. The Antonov An-124, powered by four high-thrust turbofan engines, is renowned for its exceptional long-range capability and ability to transport oversized, heavy, and specialized cargo.

The aircraft is frequently deployed for transporting military equipment, aerospace components, massive machinery, and humanitarian aid across continents. With a payload capacity of over 120 tonnes and a unique nose opening cargo loading system, the AN-124 remains a global workhorse in heavy lift logistics.

Global trade strong even as US tariffs hit highs not seen since 1930s

Globalisation is proving far tougher than politics. Despite the steepest rise in U.S. tariffs since the 1930s, global trade is expanding, and business investment abroad remains steady. Global trade is projected to grow 2.5% annually through 2029, matching the past decade’s pace.

The first half of 2025 saw the fastest trade expansion in over a decade, as China offset U.S. losses with gains in ASEAN, Africa, and Europe. Even amid record conflicts, the world economy shows no split into rival blocs, and trade is travelling farther than ever.

Tariffs may slow globalisation, but they can’t stop it, reports the DHL and New York University’s Stern School of Business special update to the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker. The update offers the first systematic assessment of how international trade and business investment are reacting to shifting U.S. trade policy under President Trump’s second term, according to a release from DHL.

The Tracker is a concise report and interactive website that provides regular updates on globalisation and global trade. It complements the DHL Global Connectedness Report, published regularly since 2011. "This edition draws on over 20 million data points from more than 25 sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the changing landscape of globalisation and global trade," it reads.

Global trade on track to match growth rate of previous decade through 2029 Global trade is projected to keep growing. The Tracker’s composite forecast projects a 2.5% annualised growth rate in global trade volumes from 2025 to 2029 – roughly matching the pace of the previous decade.

One reason why trade can continue growing even as the U.S. raises tariffs is that only 13% of global goods imports went to the U.S. in 2024 and 9% of exports came from the U.S. Another is that most countries have not followed the U.S. in implementing broad tariff increases.

“Despite all the headwinds, the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker highlights the enduring strength of global trade,” said John Pearson, CEO DHL Express. “Trade barriers do not serve the world’s best interests. But we must never underestimate the creativity of buyers and sellers around the world who want to do business with each other.

At DHL, we’re ready to help our customers seize the countless trade opportunities that continue to emerge across international markets.” Source: Economist Intelligence Unit, IMF World Economic Outlook Database, Oxford Economics Global Data, S&P Global Market Intelligence Tariffs are slowing, not stopping trade growth While U.S. tariffs are predicted to slow global trade growth, they are not expected to stop it.

Before the current wave of tariff increases (in January 2025), global goods trade volume was forecast to grow at a 3.1% annualised rate over the 2025 to 2029 period – since downgraded to 2.5%. North America experienced the steepest downgrade, with projections falling from 2.7% in January 2025 to just 1.5% by September. Most other regions experienced smaller downward revisions.

In contrast, forecasts were upgraded for South & Central America and the Caribbean, as well as the Middle East & North Africa. Most countries in these regions face relatively small U.S. tariff increases, and Middle East trade is expected to benefit from increased oil production and exports.

Cargo First opens new cargo facilities at Bournemouth Airport

Cargo First, the cargo division of Bournemouth Airport, has completed and commissioned new cargo handling facilities at the airport in Bournemouth, UK, on 14 October 2025. The facilities include three new ICAO Code E aircraft stands, a larger Customs-bonded cargo centre, and improved truck access and servicing areas. The project, part of Regional & City Airports’ investment programme, aims to double Bournemouth’s cargo infrastructure and support future growth.

Steve Gill, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, said: “The completion of these new facilities marks a significant milestone for Bournemouth Airport and Cargo First. They not only provide the infrastructure to support our fast-growing cargo business but also reinforce our position as a highly attractive alternative to congested London hubs.

With record volumes already passing through the airport last year, this investment underlines our ambitions as the UK’s newest import/export air hub.” Also Read - Maastricht Aachen Airport welcomes Avianca Cargo flights Cargo First’s new zone is located on the northern side of the airfield, near the airport’s 200-acre business park, enabling logistics companies to co-locate warehousing facilities.

The upgraded cargo centre includes a 3,000m² Customs-bonded warehouse with a 450m² powered cargo transit system and expanded welfare and office areas. Iain Edwards, Chief Operating Officer at European Cargo, said: “The new facilities are a real boost to our business. Bournemouth Airport offers us the flexibility and speed that are critical in air cargo, and the expansion means we can look forward to handling even more volumes efficiently.

It’s a huge advantage to operate away from the congestion of the London hubs, while still being able to deliver consignments into the London market faster than if we flew there directly.” Cargo First handled a record 31,000 tonnes of freight in the 12 months to March 2025, marking a 70 percent rise over the previous year and placing Bournemouth eighth among UK airfreight airports. The growth has been fuelled by e-commerce imports and increasing exports of high-value UK goods.

Global airlines face $11 billion supply chain hit in 2025: IATA

Global airlines are heading for a loss exceeding US$11 billion in 2025, due to widespread supply chain disruptions that are delaying new aircraft deliveries and grounding existing fleets. According to a new report, ‘Reviving the Commercial Aircraft Supply Chain,’ from International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Oliver Wyman, shortages of labor, materials, and parts are forcing carriers to keep older, less fuel-efficient planes in service, leading to rapidly soaring costs.

The most significant financial burden for airlines, estimated at US$4.2 billion, comes from delayed fuel cost efficiency, as airlines are forced to operate older, less fuel-efficient aircraft that also emit higher greenhouse gases This older global fleet is also driving up operational expenses with an estimated US$3.1 billion in additional maintenance costs.

Furthermore, the struggle to get engines repaired is causing a surge in leasing, pushing excess engine leasing costs to about US$2.6 billion, a figure worsened by a 20-30% rise in general aircraft lease rates since 2019. To cope with unpredictable parts flow, airlines are also stockpiling spares, contributing an estimated $1.4 billion in excess inventory holding costs.

This crisis is compounded by a fundamental shift in the aerospace business model. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are now generating a larger share of their profits from the aftermarket (spare parts, repairs, and maintenance) rather than initial equipment sales. This matters to airlines because newer, fuel-efficient aircraft are also more complex to maintain, and component repairs are often only possible through the OEMs or their networks.

Aerospace The report notes that OEMs have limited incentive to develop new, cheaper repair solutions, often preferring to sell new replacement spare parts, which increases both costs and lead times for carriers. This is reinforced by lessors, who own over half the global fleet and often mandate OEM parts and repairs in lease return conditions, restricting the ability of airlines to use other approved, cost-saving repair options.

These pressures originate from fragile supply networks under strain from global forces. Geopolitical instability has disrupted access to critical materials like titanium, while trade barriers create friction for cross-border parts movement. Material shortages are slowing production, with materials like aluminum and steel in tight supply.

Commercial airlines are being squeezed as the defense and business aviation sectors compete for the same materials and engine capacity, often accepting higher prices and shorter terms.

Adding to this structural constraint are severe skilled labor shortages, as large waves of maintenance and technical staff are already approaching or entering retirement. The combination of these factors has created deep supply challenges that the industry cannot quickly resolve.

SAL and SPL sign agreement to boost airmail handling in Saudi Arabia

AL Logistics Services and Saudi Post (SPL) signed a strategic agreement in Riyadh on 13 October 2025 to enhance mail handling and transportation operations across Saudi Arabia. The agreement, signed by Mohammed Nahhas, CEO of SAL's Ground Handling Sector, and Khalid Ibrahim Al-Mohammed, Vice President of Processing and Outlets at SPL, outlines how SAL will manage the entire mail handling process from receipt to aircraft transfer.

The collaboration seeks to improve the efficiency of express mail operations and strengthen integration between the postal and logistics sectors in the Kingdom. Under the terms of the agreement, SAL will oversee the preparation of specialised mail handling units, ensure the safety of shipments, and coordinate their movement between warehouses, postal facilities, and aircraft.

The partnership supports national efforts to streamline logistics and enhance the quality of service in mail delivery. Also Read - Air cargo industry mourns the passing of Conor Brannigan "We are proud of this partnership with Saudi Post, which aims to strengthen the integration between logistics and postal networks in the Kingdom, in line with our shared objectives to serve the national economy.

Leveraging SAL's expertise in ground handling and cargo management, we will ensure faster, safer, and more reliable processing of postal shipments," said Nahhas. Khalid Al Mohammed said the partnership reaffirmed SPL's role in developing the postal and logistics ecosystem.

He added that SPL’s nationwide network would maintain high standards of quality and security in mail processing and accelerate distribution to support e-commerce growth. The agreement marks a new phase of cooperation between two national entities aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. It aims to improve operational efficiency and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional logistics hub.

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 1Branches  : Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Tuticorin.

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

 

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