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  April 13,  2026

Today’s Exchange Rates

CURRENCY▲	PRICE	CHANGE	%CHANGE	OPEN	PREV.CLOSE
USD/INR	92.6775	0.0075	0.008093	92.56	92.67
EUR/USD	1.1697	-0.0002	-0.017088	1.1699	1.1699
GBP/INR	124.3896	0.181801	0.146368	124.3972	124.2078
EUR/INR	108.3253	0.147903	0.136723	108.3681	108.1774
USD/JPY	159.277	0.316986	0.199412	158.96	158.96
GBP/USD	1.3427	-0.0009	-0.066986	1.3436	1.3436
JPY/INR	0.5818	-0.001	-0.171583	0.5829	0.5828

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Djibouti Unveils Largest Ship Repair Facility in Red Sea and East Africa

Djibouti has inaugurated the largest ship repair facility in the Red Sea and East African region, marking a significant milestone in its ambition to become a leading maritime and logistics hub.

Strategically located along one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the new facility is designed to handle a wide range of vessels, including large container ships, tankers, and offshore units. The development is expected to reduce reliance on distant repair yards and provide faster turnaround times for ships operating in the region. 

The shipyard is equipped with advanced dry dock infrastructure, modern repair technologies, and comprehensive maintenance capabilities, enabling it to cater to both routine servicing and complex overhauls. It is also expected to attract international shipping lines seeking cost effective and geographically convenient repair solutions.

Officials highlighted that the project will boost local employment, enhance technical expertise and strengthen Djibouti’s position as a critical node in global maritime trade. Its proximity to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait further enhances its strategic importance.

The move comes amid increasing vessel traffic through the Red Sea corridor, reinforcing the need for robust maritime support infrastructure in the region. With this launch, Djibouti is set to play a larger role in servicing global shipping fleets and supporting regional trade growth.

West African Ports Ramp Up Capacity as Mega-Vessel Calls Surge

Ports across West Africa are accelerating infrastructure upgrades and operational enhancements as calls by mega container vessels continue to rise, signaling a shift in regional trade dynamics.

Major gateways in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast are investing in deeper drafts, longer berths, and modern cargo handling equipment to accommodate larger ships and growing container volumes.

The increase in mega-vessel calls is being driven by shipping lines seeking economies of scale and more efficient deployment of capacity on key trade routes. As a result, ports in the region are positioning themselves as competitive transshipment and gateway hubs. Facilities such as Lagos Port Complex and Tema Port have already undertaken significant expansions, including terminal upgrades and improved hinterland connectivity, to handle higher cargo throughput and larger vessels.

Industry stakeholders note that while the developments present opportunities for trade growth and regional integration, they also place pressure on port efficiency, turnaround times and supporting infrastructure such as roads and rail networks.

The scaling up of West African ports reflects a broader trend of maritime modernization in emerging markets, as countries seek to capture a larger share of global trade and adapt to evolving shipping patterns.

Vietnam Reduces Inland Port Fees to Enhance Supply Chain Efficiency

Vietnam has announced a reduction in inland port fees as part of a broader effort to strengthen its logistics sector and improve overall supply chain efficiency.

The move is aimed at lowering transportation and handling costs for businesses, particularly exporters who rely heavily on inland container depots (ICDs) for cargo consolidation and movement to seaports.

By easing fee structures, authorities expect to enhance the competitive- ness of Vietnamese goods in global markets. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the decision, noting that high inland logistics costs have long been a bottleneck in the country’s trade ecosystem.

The fee cuts are expected to encourage greater utilization of inland ports, reduce congestion at major seaports and streamline cargo flows across key industrial corridors.

Vietnam’s logistics sector has been expanding rapidly, driven by strong manufacturing growth and increasing participation in global supply chains. However, inefficiencies in multimodal connectivity and cost pressures have posed challenges to sustaining momentum.

The government’s latest initiative aligns with its broader strategy to modernize logistics infrastructure, promote digitalization and attract private investment into the sector. Improvements in road and rail connectivity, along with the development of logistics hubs are also underway to support rising trade volumes.

Analysts believe the fee reduction could provide immediate relief to exporters while contributing to long-term structural improvements in ths supply chain. As Vietnam continues to position itself as a key manufacturing and export hub in Southeast Asia, such measures are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing its global trade competitiveness. 

The Hidden Cost of One Extra Re-Handle

In container terminals, a single re-handle is often dismissed as a minor operational adjustment – an unavoidable part of daily operations. Yet across an entire terminal, these “small” moves accumulate into a significant, often invisible cost. The real issue is not the re-handle itself. It is the operating model that makes re-handling inevitable.

Today, many terminals are not truly executing plans, they are managing exceptions. What began as occasional intervention has evolved into a structural dependency. Exception handling has become the norm and re-handling is one of its clearest symptoms.

Trump announces two week ceasefire with Iran tied to Hormuz reopening

U. S. President Donald Trump has announced a two week ceasefire agreement with Iran, linking the deal to the immediate and secure reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement came shortly before the expiration of a critical deadline, following diplomatic contacts involving Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Shariff and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, who urged a pause in planned military operations to allow room for negotiations.

According to Trump, both sides have agreed to halt hostilities, with the United States stating it has already achieved its key military objectives.

He also indicated that advanced discussions are underway towards a broader, long term agreement with Tehran. Sources suggest that Iran has submitted a ten point proposal, which is now being used as the basis for negotiations, with several major points of contention reportedly already addressed.

The White House also confirmed that Israel has agreed to participate in the ceasefire by suspending its bombing campaign during the negotiation period.

Iran, through its Supreme National Security Council, has approved the temporary ceasefire and signalled readiness to enter talks with the USA, which are expected to take place in Islamabad.

At the same time, Iran’s foreign minister indicated that Tehran is prepared to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks in the Gulf and against Israel, provided that strikes on Iran cease.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Lebanon will not be included in the ceasefire agreement. The development marks a potential turning point in the conflict, with the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz, seen as a key condition for stabilizing global shipping and energy markets.

MSC Launches North India–Middle East Service at King Abdullah Port

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced the addition of Mediterranean Shipping Company’s North India–Middle East service to King Abdullah Port, marking a significant step in enhancing the Kingdom’s maritime connectivity and trade efficiency.

The new service will link King Abdullah Economic City with key regional and international ports, including Mundra Port and Jawaharlal Nehru Port. The route is designed to facilitate smoother cargo movement between India and the Middle East, with a carrying capacity of up to 2,500 TEUs.

Mawani stated that the introduction of this service will strengthen the competitiveness of Saudi ports on the global maritime map, improve operational efficiency, and support the seamless flow of international trade.

King Abdullah Port continues to reinforce its position as a strategic logistic hub, leveraging advanced infrastructure and integrated services to boost supply chain performance and enhance Saudi Arabia’s standing as a key player in regional and global trade.

All Indian Seafarers in West Asia Safe; Shipping Operations Continue Unhindered: Mukesh Mangal

Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, on Wednesday assured that all Indian seafarers operating in West Asia are safe, even as maritime operations in the region continue without disruption.

Addressing a media briefing in the national capital, Mangal said the government is closely monitoring Indian vessels and crew deployed across the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing regional tensions.

“All seafarers in the Persian Gulf remain safe,” he stated, adding that authorities are maintaining constant coordination with relevant ministries, Indian missions abroad, and maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety and stability of operations.

“Over the past two days, these vessels have safely transited the Strait of Hormuz,” Mangal said, underscoring the government’s proactive monitoring of maritime traffic in the region.

The developments come amid heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia, with India maintaining a vigilant approach to safeguard its maritime interests and ensure uninterrupted supply chains.

Tanker with Iranian crude nears India’s east coast; may mark first import in 7 years

A very large crude carrier (VLCC) carrying Iranian oil is approaching India’s eastern seaboard, signalling what could be the country’s first import of crude from Tehran in nearly seven years, according to ship tracking data and trade sources.

The vessel, Jaya, sailing under the Curacao flag, was tracked moving from the Strait of Malacca into the Andaman Sea over the weekend, passing close to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It has since crossed the island chain and is currently navigating the Bay of Bengal, sources familiar with the development said.

Shipping data indicates that the tanker is likely headed towards a port on India’s east coast, with Paradip being cited by trade sources as a probable destination. The cargo is expected to be discharged for state-run Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) later this week.

Waters around the Strait of Malacca, particularly near Malaysia, have long served as a holding area for tankers carrying Iranian crude, especially during periods of sanctions-related restrictions and logistical uncertainty.

India not imported oil from Iran for close to seven years, following U.S. sanctions that disrupted longstanding energy trade between the two countries. The arrival of this cargo, if completed, could signal a tentative resumption of such imports amid evolving geopolitical and market conditions.

The development comes at a time when global oil supply chains are under going shifts due to geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, prompting refiners to explore alternative sourcing options. Industry observers say any sustained resumption of Iranian crude imports would depend on policy clarity, sanctions environment and commercial viability.

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Qantas Freight Boosts Changi Airport Connectivity with New Singapore Stop

Qantas Freight has enhanced its Asia-Pacific cargo network with the introduction of a new Singapore stop, strengthening connectivity through Changi Airport and reinforcing its position in regional air freight operations.

The addition of Singapore as a transit point is expected to improve cargo flow between Australia, Southeast Asia, and key global markets.

By leveraging Changi Airport’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure, the carrier aims to offer faster transit times and greater flexibility for time-sensitive shipments.

The move comes amid rising demand for air cargo capacity across the region, particularly for high-value and perishable goods such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and fresh produce.

Singapore’s role as a major logistics hub enables smoother consolidation and re-distribution of cargo, enhancing supply chain efficiency for exporters and freight forwarders.

Industry observers note that the new stop will also help optimize aircraft utilization and network planning, allowing Qantas Freight to better align capacity with shifting trade patterns. The development is expected to benefit customers seeking reliable connections between Oceania and Asia, while also supporting growing intra-Asia cargo movements.

Changi Airport continues to attract global carriers expanding their cargo footprint, backed by its advanced handling capabilities, digital systems and seamless multimodal connectivity. The latest addition by Qantas Freight further underscores Singapore’s importance as a critical node in international air logistics.

As competition intensifies in the air freight sector, strategic network enhancements such as this are likely to play a key role in improving service reliability and capturing emerging trade opportunities across the Asia Pacific region.

EU Humanitarian Air Bridge delivers 78.6 tonnes of aid to Lebanon

The European Union has carried out a humanitarian air bridge operation to deliver emergency aid to Lebanon, where more than one million people have been displaced amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

As part of the operation at the end of March, humanitarian logistics cooperative Hulo coordinated two flights transporting relief supplies to Beirut on behalf of humanitarian organisations participating in the initiative.

According to the organisation, the flights carried 78.6 tonnes of humanitarian cargo, equivalent to 438 cubic metres, including health, shelter and WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) supplies intended to support populations affected by the evolving emergency.

The operation brought together eight humanitarian organisations, reflecting a coordinated effort by NGOs, UN agencies and EU member states to strengthen relief delivery to communities impacted by the crisis. Hulo said the flights were organised under the EU Humanitarian Air Bridge, an initiative designed to facilitate the rapid movement of humanitarian supplies and personnel into crisis-affected regions.

The cooperative coordinated the flights to help humanitarian organisations consolidate shipments and optimise available capacity, supporting faster delivery of critical aid. Hulo describes itself as a humanitarian cooperative that connects aid actors and pools logistics resources in order to optimise supply chain operations for humanitarian response. The organisation thanked the EU in Emergencies initiative for supporting the flight operation and enabling the delivery of essential supplies to Lebanon during the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

B747 freighters struggle as fuel costs soar

Analysis from Rotate highlights how yield increases and fuel surcharges are partly offsetting the impact of soaring jet fuel prices, but older, fuel-inefficient aircraft such as the Boeing 747-400F remain on the edge of profitability.

Data from Rotate, a data-driven strategic consulting firm, shows that yield increases of 10–40% significantly improve margins for the Boeing 777 freighter, keeping operations profitable even under elevated fuel costs.

For example, a typical B777F flight covering 8,800 km maintained profitability at $0.65/kg with a 10% yield increase, rising to $1.37/kg at a 40% yield increase. By contrast, the B747-400F struggles under the same conditions.

With fuel prices peaking at USD 4.45 per gallon on March 20, profitability margins for the B747F quickly eroded. At a 60% fuel price increase, margins fell into negative territory, with yields needing to rise by at least 30–40% just to break even.

Rotate’s analysis warns that if high fuel prices persist, the transpacific trade lane will be most exposed. The B747-400F currently accounts for 22% of capacity on transpacific routes, the highest share among global lanes.

Sustained high fuel costs could force operators to cut back, echoing 2022 when B747-400F capacity declined by 12% during a similar fuel price spike.

Other lanes, such as Asia–Europe (13%), Intra-Asia (13%), and Africa–Europe (13%), also rely heavily on the B747-400F, but the transpacific—with its long stage lengths and heavy reliance on older freighters—stands out as the most vulnerable.

FIATA and Otonomi partner to offer cargo and delay insurance globally

FIATA, International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations has partnered with Insurtech provider Otonomi, to offer cargo and delay insurance solutions to freight forwarders worldwide. The partnership aims to help members better manage business interruption risks caused by delayed cargo across air, ocean, and eCommerce shipments.

The collaboration was formalised during the session “Unlocking Value with Emerging Technologies in Freight Forwarding” at the 2026 FIATA HQ Meeting in Geneva. FIATA Members can now access Otonomi's cargo delay insurance directly on the official partnership page, where they can request a quote in seconds.

By providing key shipment details, including Air Waybill or Bill of Lading information, Otonomi’s algorithms evaluate potential delays and generate a digital quote instantly, without paperwork or manual underwriting. Members can choose their preferred delay trigger, from three to 24 hours, and coverage limit, with policy terms confirmed and issued digitally.

Stéphane Graber, FIATA Director General, said the partnership would provide members with tools to protect their business and clients’ cargo more efficiently. “By offering FIATA Members access to a modern, digitally-driven cargo and delay insurance solution, we are helping them safeguard their operations with greater ease,” he said.

Yann Barbaroux, CEO and Founder of Otonomi, highlighted that the partnership addresses a longstanding gap in logistics insurance. “Freight forwarders have long been underserved when it comes to protecting their business against cargo delays.

Partnering with FIATA allows us to bring a fast, digital solution to tens of thousands of forwarders worldwide,” he said. The programme covers sectors such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, critical automotive, life sciences, electronics, and e-commerce.

Otonomi’s platform manages the full insurance lifecycle, including quoting, policy issuance, and claims handling, while ensuring compliance with regulations across jurisdictions. FIATA Members can visit the dedicated partnership page on the Otonomi website to learn more and request a quote.

Astral Aviation returns B767-300F to maintain key cargo links

Astral Aviation has returned its Boeing 767-300F freighter to active service as part of efforts to maintain cargo connectivity between Africa, the Middle East and South Asia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

The aircraft’s reintroduction comes as escalating instability in the Middle East continues to test the resilience of global supply chains, particularly for time-sensitive commodities such as perishables and pharmaceuticals that depend on reliable air cargo services.

According to Astral Aviation Founder and CEO Sanjeev Gadhia, the freighter is playing a key role in sustaining critical air bridges linking Nairobi with major Middle Eastern hubs including Jeddah, Riyadh, Sharjah and Dubai World Central (DWC), as well as other regional destinations.

With the Boeing 767-300F back in service, the airline has been able to reinforce capacity on these routes and ensure continuity for exporters and producers whose shipments rely on stable logistics connections. The aircraft is supporting the movement of a wide range of cargo including fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, textiles and other essential goods across Astral Aviation’s network.

“In moments like these, air cargo becomes more than logistics, it becomes an economic lifeline,” Gadhia said in a social media post. He noted that operational teams based in Dubai and Nairobi are working continuously to navigate airspace constraints, operational complexities and rising costs while maintaining reliable services.

The restoration of the B767-300F to the fleet forms part of Astral Aviation’s broader effort to stabilise cargo flows during a period of heightened uncertainty for global transport networks. Headquartered in Nairobi, Astral Aviation operates cargo services linking Africa with markets across the Middle East and South Asia.

Menzies Aviation surpasses $3bn revenue on global expansion

Menzies Aviation handled 2.4 million tonnes of cargo and over 4.8 million flights in 2025, as it surpassed $3 billion in revenue for the first time, driven by strong global expansion.

The company reported revenue of more than $3 billion in 2025, up from $2.6 billion the previous year, marking a 16% year-on-year increase.

EBITDA rose to $406 million, supported by increased scale and improved operational performance across its network. Growth was driven by a record expansion programme during the year, with Menzies continuing to strengthen its global presence.

The company now operates in 65 countries and serves 347 airports, expanding its footprint through new market entries and contract wins.

The company said its larger scale has helped improve efficiency and deliver better performance, while also supporting its long-term growth strategy. It continued to strengthen its capabilities across ground handling, air cargo and fuel services.

Hassan El-Houry said the strong results reflect the company’s focus on scaling its operations while maintaining high standards of safety and service. He added that Menzies remains focused on expanding its global network and building long-term value.

Menzies Aviation said it will continue to invest in its operations, people and infrastructure as it looks to sustain growth and further strengthen its position in the global aviation services market.

Liege Airport expands multimodal reach with new rail freight links

Liege Airport’s logistics ecosystem has expanded with the inauguration of new rail freight connections linking the Belgian hub with Italy and Romania, strengthening multimodal cargo options and reinforcing the airport’s role in European supply chains.

The rail services, launched by logistics operator NOVANDI, connect Liege with key industrial and logistics centres in southern and eastern Europe, offering additional intermodal transport solutions that integrate rail with the region’s existing air, road and inland waterway networks.

For Liege Airport, the development forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen multimodal connectivity and provide logistics partners with more flexible cargo transport options across Europe. The airport said the new rail services are integrated into its wider logistics ecosystem, where complementarity between transport modes is seen as essential to maintaining efficient cargo flows and supporting regional industry.

Located at the intersection of major rail, road, river and air corridors, Liege has emerged as one of Belgium’s key logistics gateways, handling significant volumes of air cargo while also serving as a distribution centre for European freight movements.

Regional authorities say the rail initiative will also support efforts to improve supply chain efficiency and sustainability. Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice-President and Walloon Minister of Economy, Industry, Employment and Training, described the project as an important step for Wallonia’s logistics sector.

“Inaugurating the new rail freight lines linking Liege to Italy and Romania is a concrete step forward for Wallonia,” Jeholet said, noting that the initiative will help reduce road congestion, lower emissions and provide more reliable logistics solutions for companies.

He added that Liege’s position at the crossroads of major European transport corridors allows it to strengthen its role as a strategic logistics hub and reinforce Wallonia’s integration into international trade flows. For the air cargo sector, the expansion of rail connectivity at Liege Airport highlights the growing importance of multimodal logistics networks, where air freight hubs are increasingly linked with rail and road corridors to facilitate faster and more sustainable cargo distribution across the continent.

Note: Social media posts referenced in this article were originally in French and translated into English using the platform’s default translation feature.

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.