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

 

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

 

 

Corporate News Letter for  Wednesday  December 17,  2025


Today’s Exchange Rates


CURRENCY

PRICE

CHANGE

%CHANGE

OPEN

PREV.CLOSE

 

USD/INR

91.03

0.290001

0.319595

90.79

90.74

 

EUR/USD

1.1775

0.0022

0.187187

1.1753

1.1753

 

GBP/INR

122.0691

0.600998

0.494778

121.3304

121.4681

 

EUR/INR

107.0135

0.461693

0.433304

106.6786

106.5518

 

USD/JPY

154.617

0.612991

0.394892

155.23

155.23

 

GBP/USD

1.3419

0.0043

0.321471

1.3376

1.3376

 

DXY Index

98.208

0.100998

0.102735

98.268

98.309

 

JPY/INR

0.5882

0.0029

0.495463

0.5846

0.5853

 


///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

Suez Canal successfully transits floating dock GREEN DOCK 3


Admiral Ossama Rabiee confirmed the successful transit of the floating dock GREEN DOCK 3 through the Suez Canal.

Five tugboats supported the operation. The tugboat PERSISTENCE towed the dock from the front. Four SCA tugboats guided it from the sides and rear. The doc sailed with the southern convoy.

The voyage began in Indonesia. The destination is Turkey. The dock passed safely through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandab Strait before entering the Canal. 

The transit took 24 hours. The floating dock does not move on its own. This required special navigation procedures.

GREEN DOCK 3 measures 290 meters long and 57 meters wide. Its draft is 8 meters. It weighs 42,000 tons. It is one of the largest towed docks to transit the canal.

Admiral Rabiee said this operation proves the Canal can handle unconventional marine units. He praised SCA pilots and tug crews and said their experience ensures safe navigation.

Also, he added that the transit reassures global shipping lines. It proves navigation in the region remains safe and stable.

He stated that the New Suez Canal offers ideal conditions for special operations. The channel is straight, with fewer curves. The Southern Sector Development Project widened the Canal by 40 meters. This allows larger vessels to pass safely.

Rabiee also highlighted the economic impact. The Canal route saves 6,000 nautical miles compared to the Cape of Good Hope. This cuts distance by 48%. It reduces fuel use and operating costs. It also cuts emissions by about 996 tons of CO2. Rabiee thanked the Canal’s teams for their co-ordination and professionalism.

Captain Viktor Kishilan, Master of the tugboat PERSISTENCE, thanked the Suez Canal Authority. Moreover, he confirmed the journey from Indonesia was safe and the Canal saves time and costs.

Lastly, he described the Suez Canal as the best route between East and West. He called it essential to global trade.

Bangladesh approves import permits


There is good news for onion-producing farmers. Bangladesh has finally decided to allow onion imports from India. This decision will directly benefit onion-producing farmers and onion exporters in India. Bangladesh has announced the allocation of 50 import permits with a daily capacity of 30 tons starting from December 7.

It has been revealed that only importers who have already applied will receive these permits. According to the information received, permission has been granted to export approximately 15,000 quintals of onions from India to Bangladesh daily. The state president of the Onion Producers Farmers Association, Bharat Dighole, has welcomed this decision, stating that this step will boost onion prices and provide some relief to farmers.

Due to the long term decline in onion prices, farmers were in a difficult situation. With increased exports, demand in the market will rise and onion prices are expected to remain stable, as expressed by farmer organisation.

China posts record $1 trillion annual trade surplus as export surge offsets weak U.S. demand



China closed November with a landmark economic achievement, recording an annual trade surplus exceeding $1 trillion for the first time. Official data released on Monday shows that strong export performance in markets outside the United States compensated for sharply declining American demand.

The milestone comes just weeks after Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump agreed to a temporary pause in their long-running trade dispute during a late-October meeting.

The truce halted the punitive tariffs and export controls that had rattled global supply chains and triggered a cycle of retaliatory measures. Despite the easing of tensions, China’s exports to the United States continued to deteriorate in November, plunging 28.6% to $33.8 billion.

However, exports to other regions remained robust, lifting overall shipments by 5.9% Y-o-Y, reversing October’s slight dip and surpassing Bloomberg’s 4% growth forecast.

According to Zichun Huang of Capital Economics, the strength in non-US markets more than compensated for the American decline. “Exports are likely to remain resilient, thanks to trade re-routing and rising price competitiveness as deflation pushes down China’s real effective exchange rate,” AFP quoted him saying.

With November’s number added, China’s cumulative trade surplus for the first 11 months of the year reached $1.08 Trillion, already surpassing the full year total for 2023, Huang expects the surplus to expand further in 2025.

Rising Trade Tensions With Europe :  China’s widening trade advantage is expected to increase friction with Western partners. French President Emmanuel Macron, following a recent state visit to Beijing, warned in an interview with Les Echos that Europe may impose tariffs if China fails to narrow its significant trade imbalance with the EU. “Europeans will be forced to take strong measures in the coming months,” Macron said.


Hutchison Ports Thailand reaches 50 million TEUs milestone


Hutchison Ports Thailand (HPT) has surpassed 50 million TEUs of containers handled since its establishment, setting a new benchmark in Thailand’s maritime and logistics sector.

Looking ahead, HPT is preparing to launch the next chapter of its development with the completion of the highly automated Terminal D. Developed under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) framework, Terminal D will be fully operational in early 2026.

It will support Thailand’s growing economy by boosting capacity and introducing next-generation technologies. Terminal D will comprise a 1,700-metre berth and a depth of 16 metres at mean sea level, enabling it to accommodate the world’s largest container vessels. Operations will be powered by advanced digital systems, including the Terminal Operating System n-Gen, Gate Automation and digitalised work-flows.



Port of Melbourne publishes its 2025 sustainability report

 


Port of Melbourne has released its 2025 Sustainability Report, showcasing key achievements and progress made during the FY25 period. The port’s Sustainability Strategy, refreshed in FY25, is anchored in People, Planet, Partnerships, and Prosperity, according to the port.

The Port of Melbourne aims to lead the decarbonisation of its supply chain, minimise its impact on its land, air, and waters, and build strong stakeholder and community relationships. This year, the Port of Melbourne ranked equal first among Australian and international ports in the 2025 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) Infrastructure Asset Assessment.

The port also maintained its 5-star GRESB rating for the fourth consecutive year and scored the maximum possible 100 points for the second year.

Port of Melbourne CEO, Saul Cannon, said : “The 2025 Sustainability Report reflects our commitment to creating long term value for Victoria – its people, environment and economy. Looking ahead, we intend to deepen our collaboration with Government, industry and the broader

Community to drive even greater impact. As demand for trade continues to rise, we remain focused on embedding sustainability into our operation and growth, ensuring we deliver not only for today but for Victoria’s future”.

Earlier this summer, the Cook Government allocated AUD 204 Million in the 2025-26 State Budget to upgrade port infrastructure across Western Australia.

Diana Shipping secures capesize charter with Glencore

Greek dry bulk owner Diana Shipping has fixed its 2013-built capesize on a new period charter with Glencore Freight, securing cover through at least late 2026. The 2013-built P S Palios will earn a gross rate of $25,200 per day, less 5% commission, for a period running to November 15, 2026, with an option for Glencore to extend for two more months.

The new employment begins December 14, 2025, replacing the 179,134 dwt ship’s current fixture with Bohai Shipping, which started in May 2024 at $27,150 per day. Diana Shipping said it expects the contract to generate around $8.34m in revenue for the minimum charter period. 

The deal adds to a run of period activity by the Athens-based owner. Last week, Diana secured multi-year employment for two ultra-maxes at slightly higher rates than their previous charters.

/////       AIR  CARGO   NEWS   /////

India approves AEI's STC for 737-800SF freighter conversion

DGCA certification adds to existing AEI 737-800SF STC approvals from other authorities as Indian cargo operator takes delivery of converted freighter.

                             B737-800-freighter-conversion-Photo-AEI

Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. (AEI) has secured Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Approval from India’s Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its Boeing 737-800SF freighter conversion.

The 737-800SF STC (ST02690LA) approval from DGCA adds to previous approvals from the FAA, CAAC, EASA, TCCA, UK CAA, CAACI (Cayman Islands) and DCA (Guernsey), as well as Brazilian, and Argentinian ANAC approvals, said the Miami-based freighter conversion company.

Chennai-based cargo airline Afcom Holding has leased a previously converted AEI 737-800SF (MSN 33003) and will operate the aircraft out of India to various destinations in Asia. The lease was the impetus for AEI to gain approval with the DGCA, said AEI. Robert Convey, AEI senior vice president of sales and marketing, elaborated: “This STC Validation will allow Indian cargo operators access to the industry leading AEI B737 800SF and a path towards greater profitability through affordability.

“With India’s e-commerce and express markets continuing to grow, the B737-800SF will provide operators with the right blend of payload, volume, and economics to compete in an ever-changing world.”

The AEI-converted 737-800SF freighter offers a main deck payload of up to 52,700 lbs. (23,904 kg) and incorporates eleven full height 88” x 125” container positions, plus an additional position for an AEP/AEH.

The conversion also incorporates new floor beams aft of the wing box, a flexible Ancra Cargo Loading System and a 86” x 137” main cargo door with a single vent door system.

AEI said its design allows for containers to be loaded into the aircraft a full 16.5” aft of the forward door jamb, ensuring ground operators have sufficient maneuvering room. This minimises potential door and aircraft strikes, stressed AEI.

In October, AEI announced it had begun developing a conversion programme for Boeing 737-900ER aircraft, with a planned launch date of 2029.

ANAC approves additional frequencies for Bringer's Miami-Navegantes route

  767-300F LATAM flight for Bringer Air Cargo

The Brazilian Federal Aviation Authority (ANAC) has granted additional flight frequencies for Bringer Air Cargo’s (BAC) service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Navegantes International Airport (NVT) in Santa Catarina, Brazil.

This approval follows BAC’s first international widebody freighter flight to land directly at NVT on 26 November. The airline had said initially there would be weekly frequencies, but it planned to expand to three or four weekly flights as market demand increases.

The LATAM Airlines Boeing 767-300F used for the flight offers a payload capacity of up to 50 tons and was operated under Bringer's air cargo programme. 

The authorised additional frequencies enable Bringer Air Cargo to expand its scheduled operations on the MIA–NVT route and enhance its charter flight offerings, including direct landings in NVT from airports around the world. The additional capacity will enable more flexibility for specialised logistics options.

“This approval from ANAC is a major milestone for Bringer Air Cargo and an important step in supporting global supply chains,” said Eduardo De Castro, president.

“The success of our inaugural wide-body operation into Navegantes demonstrated how critical this corridor is for shippers across the Americas. With these added frequencies, we are well positioned to meet rising demand and deliver even greater value to our customers worldwide.”

The  MIA–NVT route provides a strategic gateway for cargo moving between the US, Brazil, and neighbouring markets, offering access to Santa Catarina’s manufacturing, technology, and distribution hubs.

Bringer offers charter services, alongside general and specialist transport of shipments. The company offers capacity on a variety of cargo aircraft, including Boeing 747Fs, 767Fs and 757Fs.

Swissport Malpensa scales up to 100 tonnes of cargo per day

Handler's 4,000 sq m warehouse operation demonstrates rapid scaling capabilities as facility prepares for export flows and expanded cargo services.

                               Swissport Malpensa cargo facility

Swissport has marked a major milestone at its newly launched Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) cargo operation, increasing throughput from nine tonnes per day at the start of activities to up to 100 tonnes per day in just five months.

The cargo handler announced in June that it would launch cargo handling operations at MXP. The Malpensa operation, located in a newly refurbished 4,000 sq m second-line warehouse within the World Trade Center (WTC) complex, was initially focused on import handling, pre-customs clearance, and express distribution.

The facility is now preparing to expand into export flows and broader general cargo services. Marina Bottelli, Swissport’s country manager for Italy, said: “Scaling from nine to 100 tonnes per day in such a short time is a clear demonstration of Swissport’s ability to deploy harmonised global standards, advanced handling processes, and high-performing teams.

"Malpensa is a critical cargo gateway for Italy and Europe, and this success reflects our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and seamless cargo flows for our customers across the region.”

Swissport said the milestone reinforced the company's long-term strategy in Italy, where the company is pursuing growth across cargo handling, ground operations and lounge hospitality. As well as MXP, Swissport has been operating at Milan Linate Airport (LIN) since October 2022, providing ground handling services such as check-in and boarding services and operating the Lost & Found and VIP lounges.

Prestwick comes top in airfreight at Logistics UK awards

Scottish airport recognised for sustained cargo growth driven by new airline partnerships, scheduled services and expanded handling capacity

                     Nico Le Roux (second from left), Prestwick’s business                                 development director, was presented with the award

Glasgow Prestwick Airport emerged the Air Freight Business of the Year winner at Logistics UK's Logistics Awards 2025.

The Scottish airport cinched the award ahead of fellow shortlisted companies, cargo.one, Chapman Freeborn Airchartering, FyUs Aviation Group and Uniserve.

Prestwick has seen sustained cargo growth this year, helped by serveral new airline partnerships and scheduled services, as well as investment in its handling capacity.

“This award reflects the discipline and focus shown by our entire team over the past year,” said Ian Forgie, chief executive, Prestwick.

“We have grown our network, built strong partnerships, and delivered reliable performance at a scale that has changed what Prestwick can offer to the market.”

Nico Le Roux, Prestwick’s business development director, accepted the award on behalf of the airport at the ceremony held last night at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.

Now in its ninth year, the annual Logistics Awards recognise the achievements of businesses and individuals who have made a significant contribution to the logistics and supply industry in the past twelve months.

This year’s event, supported by Crown Oil, saw entries from the road, rail, sea and air industries, all displaying outstanding commitment, knowledge and expertise of their sectors. 

The full list of Logistics Awards 2025 winners are: 

International Logistics Business of the Year (sponsored by Motive): Currie Solutions Group  

Highly commended: Harrison Spinks and Universe 

Public Services Operator of the Year: M6toll (Midland Expressway Ltd) 

Most Innovative Company of the Year: Gregory Distribution Ltd
Highly commended: Palletline Ltd 

Freight by Water Business of the Year: Port of Dover
Highly commended: Ellerman City Liners 

Decarbonisation Initiative of the Year (sponsored by Close Brothers): Evri
Highly commended: Grid Smarter Cities in partnership with Southwark Council 

Logistics Technology Provider of the Year (sponsored by Depot Connect International): Parcelly
Highly commended: Microlise 

Van Business of the Year (sponsored by Logistics UK Recovery Service): Tesco.com 
Highly commended: Efret and Northgate Vehicle Hire 

Logistics Partner of the Year (sponsored by Crown Oil): Uniserve and Sainsbury’s
Highly commended: Aramex UK 

Air Freight Business of the Year: Glasgow Prestwick Airport 

Diversity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year (sponsored by Port of Dover): GXO
Highly commended: National Grid 

Rail Freight Business of the Year (sponsored by Howard Tenens Logistics): DP World
Highly commended: Tesco distribution Rail Network 

Warehousing Business of the Year: Howard Tenens Logistics
Highly commended: XPO Logistics  

Last Mile Delivery Business of the Year (sponsored by Wise): Life Couriers UK 

Most Innovative Product of the Year (sponsored by Palletways): Collett & Sons Ltd’s Blade Adaptor Trailer 

Safety in Logistics Initiative of the Year (sponsored by DP World): Pallet-Track Ltd  

Rising Star of the Year: Beth Baxter, Fleet Coordinator, Swain Container Solutions and Elliott Lancaster, Innovation Manager and PhD candidate, Omnes Global/Keele University  

Logistics Leader of the Year (sponsored by Flexis): John Trenchard, Vice President Commercial & Supply Chain, DP World
Highly commended: James Stephens, VP Corporate Affairs UK & Ireland, DHL Supply Chain 

Road Transport Operator of the Year (sponsored by Brigade Electronics UK): Woodland Logistics 

Logistics UK’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Malcolm Wilson, former CEO, GXO Logistics 

The evening also saw Lee Thompson-Halls, fleet transport manager, Brocklesby Ltd announced as the winner of Logistics UK’s Transport Manager of the Year competition for 2025, sponsored by Samsara. 

Logistics UK chief executive Ben Fletcher said: “Every year we are proud to host the Logistics Awards, showcasing the widespread skills, talent and expertise of our industry. The quality of entrants was extremely impressive and acts as a reminder of the exceptional organisations and individuals working in the sector today.  

“Those who were shortlisted for awards should feel proud of themselves and their achievements: competition was stiff, and judges had a tough job on their hands determining the winners.” 

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.  

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