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 May 20,
2026
Today’s
Exchange Rates
|
CURRENCY▲ |
PRICE |
CHANGE |
%CHANGE |
OPEN |
PREV.CLOSE |
|
|
96.5225 |
0.162498 |
0.168637 |
96.37 |
96.36 |
|
|
|
1.1617 |
-0.0039 |
-0.334586 |
1.1657 |
1.1656 |
|
|
|
129.2386 |
0.484207 |
0.37607 |
129.3313 |
128.7544 |
|
|
|
112.1252 |
0.011299 |
0.010078 |
112.2462 |
112.1139 |
|
|
|
159.121 |
0.300995 |
0.189519 |
158.82 |
158.82 |
|
|
|
1.3396 |
-0.0038 |
-0.282867 |
1.3434 |
1.3434 |
|
|
|
0.6064 |
-0.0002 |
-0.032966 |
0.6067 |
0.6066 |
|
/// Sea Cargo News ///
COSCO Shipping
Launches Direct North Africa Express Service to Libya
The arrival of the 300-metre-long MV Guo Yun Hai and the
official inauguration of COSCO Shipping’s North Africa Express service have
marked a significant step forward in maritime trade connectivity between China
and Libya.
According to the shipping line, the new service is designed to
improve supply chain efficiency by eliminating intermediate transhipment ports,
reducing transit times and offering greater cargo flexibility for shippers,
importers and industrial enterprises operating between the two countries.
The launch is also expected to strengthen Libya’s logistics
sector, where direct container liner connections from the Far East have
historically remained limited. Most cargo moving into Libya has traditionally
relied on third-party trans-shipment hubs, resulting in longer delivery cycles
and increased logistics costs.
COSCO Shipping said the North Africa service will enhance
regional supply chain resilience and operational flexibility while expanding
Libya’s trade links with global markets.
The service will operate on a bi-monthly basis using modern
container vessels, including the MV Guo Yun Hai. The route provides full
non-transhipment coverage connecting key ports in China and North Africa.
The port rotation for the North Africa Express service is:
Qingdao – Incheon – Shanghai – Ningbo – Guangzhou Nansha – Suez
Canal – Port Said West (Egypt) – Benghazi (Libya) – Misurata (Libya) – Valencia
(Spain).
MSC Emerges as Leading
Carrier on North Europe–Mediterranean Trade Lane
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has strengthened its
dominance on the North Europe–Mediterranean trade lane, controlling 45.5 per
cent of total container shipping capacity on the route. The carrier’s expanding
market share reflects continued fleet growth and strategic service deployment
across key European shipping corridors.
Industry data showed MSC has significantly increased vessel
capacity and service coverage between major North European ports and
Mediterranean hubs, reinforcing its position as the leading operator on the
route. The company has continued to expand independently following the phased
restructuring of major shipping alliances and changing competitive dynamics in
the global container market.
Analysts said MSC’s strong presence on the trade lane
couldprovide greater operational flexibility and network reach for customers,
while also intensifying competition among container carriers operating in the
Europe-Mediterranean region. The route remains a critical corridor for
intra-European trade, transhipment activity and cargo flows connecting Europe
with Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
OOCL Moves to Overturn
$45 Million FMC Judgment
Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) has filed an appeal against a USD 45 million judgment issued by the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) in a high-profile pandemic-era shipping dispute. The case is linked to allegations concerning container shipping practices and cargo handling during the severe supply chain disruptions experienced throughout the COVID-19 period.
The FMC ruling involved claims related to detention, demurrage,
and service-related charges imposed during the pandemic, when global container
shortages, port congestion, and vessel delays significantly disrupted
international trade.
OOCL is seeking to overturn or reduce the financial penalty,
arguing that the decision does not accurately reflect the operational realities
faced by carriers during the unprecedented logistics crisis.
The appeal is being closely watched by the global shipping
industry as it could influence future regulatory interpretations and carrier
liability standards related to pandemic-era disruptions.
Industry analysts said the outcome may also shape how maritime
regulators and shipping lines handle disputes over detention charges, service
obligations and congestion costs in future supply chain emergencies.
Port of Colombo Posts
13.9% Growth in Container Throughput in Jan–Apr 2026
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has reported a strong rise
in container handling volumes at the Port of Colombo during the first four
months of 2026, highlighting the port’s continued importance as a major
transshipment hub in South Asia.
According to SLPA, cumulative container throughput from January
to April 2026 reached more than 2.91 million TEUs, marking a 13.9 percent
increase compared to 2.56 million TEUs handled during the corresponding period
in 2025.
The port also registered significant growth in April 2026 alone,
handling 761,096 TEUs, up 22 percent year-on-year from April 2025 volumes.
The port of Colombo continues to operate predominantly as a
transhipment gateway, with transhipment cargo contributing over 80% of its
total container operations. Its strategic location along the East West maritime
corridor continues to attract major mainline shipping services connecting Asia,
the Middle East, Europe and Africa.
In a further boost to the port’s long term expansion plans, the
Sri Lanka Ports Authority announced that it intends to invite Expressions of
Interest before the end of 2026 for the second phase development of the West
Container Terminal.
The proposed expansion project is expected to add more than 3
million TEUs to the port’s annual handling capacity, further strengthening
Colombo’s competitiveness and positioning as a key maritime and logistics hub
on the global East-West trade route.
Maersk Engages SLPA on
Enhancing Colombo Terminal Productivity
Delegates from Maersk met with senior officials of the Sri Lanka
Ports Authority at the SLPA Headquarters in Port of Colombo to discuss
operational performance and future collaboration concerning Maersk vessel and
terminal activities in Colombo.
The Maersk delegation included Karan Tariyal, Head of Hubs –
Maersk Dubai (TbM Operations – IMEA), Biju Ravi, Country Manager – Sri Lanka
& Maldives, and Thilina Perera, Port Captain / Port Execution Lead –
Colombo. Representing SLPA were Chairman Dr Parakrama Dissanayake, Vice
Chairman Eng. Herath M. P. Jayawardhana, Managing Director, Eng. Ganaka
Hemachandra, and Additional Managing Director – Operations Prabath J. Malavige,
along with other senior officials.
Discussions focused on operational challenges impacting vessel
turnaround times, berth planning, schedule reliability, transhipment
co-ordinations and Inter-Terminal Trucking operations, while also addressing
broader port execution efficiency within the Port of Colombo.
Both parties highlighted the strategic importance of Colombo
within Maersk’s regional network spanning the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle
East and the Africa corridor. The meeting also stressed the need for stronger
terminal coordination, improved handling efficiency, faster response mechanisms
and continued operational enhancements to support rising volumes and strengthen
Colombo’s position as a leading regional transhipment hub.
As one of the world’s largest integrated shipping and logistics
operators, Maersk operates a global container fleet capacity exceeding four
million TEUs, with extensive connectivity across major East-West and intra-Asia
routes, reinforcing Colombo’s role as a key node in global maritime trade.
Three Labourers Die
After Being Found Unconscious in Cargo Hold at Deendayal Port
Three labourers lost their lives after they were found
unconscious inside a cargo hold of the vessel MV Pan Optimum during timber
unloading operations at berth number 13 of Deendayal Port Authority on
Wednesday.
According to a preliminary incident report issued by the port
authority, the incident occurred around 11:50 am while stevedoring operations
were being carried out by Rishi Shipping India Pvt Ltd.
The deceased were identified as Rajesh, Masuk Ali, and Raj
Kumar, all labourers engaged under Mira Cargo Handling on behalf of Rishi
Shipping India Pvt Ltd.
Officials stated that the three workers were discovered
unconscious near the manhole entrance area of Cargo Hold No. 3 during cargo
handling operations involving fumigated timber cargo. Following the incident,
rescue efforts were immediately launched with assistance from the vessel’s
crew.
The workers were evacuated from the cargo hold and transported
to a hospital in port ambulance at around 12.30 pm. However, doctors declared
all three dead.
Deendayal Port Authority said the incident has been reported to
the concerned authorities and an investigation has been initiated to determine
the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
/// Air Cargo News ///
Hyderabad airport gets second cargo terminal
GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL) has commissioned Cargo Terminal II at Hyderabad International Airport as part of its cargo infrastructure expansion plans, said company officials.
The terminal covers 16,864 sqm and will begin operations with an annual cargo handling capacity of 50,000 MT. The airport has allocated space for future expansion, which could increase total handling capacity to 100,000 MT per annum.
The facility includes separate inbound and outbound cargo zones, dedicated import and export processing areas, multi-level storage systems, and build-up and breakdown sections for parallel shipment handling.
As per the company, the new terminal is intended to support pharma, perishables, express consignments, and general freight.
Now, India’s 2nd largest export destination is Singapore
India’s second-largest export destination is Singapore, which has overtaken the UAE. India’s exports to Singapore rose 180 per cent YoY at US$ 3.20 billion in April, while exports to the UAE fell 36 per cent due to the ongoing West Asia crisis.
The shift follows growing instability in shipping movement and logistics across the Gulf region, said analysts. Indian exporters and importers are increasingly routing trade through Singapore to reduce delays and operational risks.
The disruptions are changing India’s energy import patterns, with countries, such as Oman, Nigeria and Peru emerging as alternative suppliers. Prolonged tensions are likely to affect shipping costs, fuel prices and regional trade flows.
Panama Air Cargo Unit of DP World Gains IATA Recognition
DP World has received International Air Transport Association (IATA) certification for its air cargo operations in Panama, strengthening the company’s position in the global airfreight and multimodal logistics sector.
The certification enhances DP World’s ability to provide internationally recognised air cargo handling and freight forwarding services in the region. The IATA recognition is expected to support improved operational standards, cargo security, and service efficiency for DP World’s Panama-based airfreight business.
The company said the accreditation will help expand its integrated logistics offerings by combining air, sea, and land transport solutions for regional and international customers.
Panama remains a strategic logistics hub connecting North and South America through major maritime and air cargo corridors. Industry analysts noted that the certification could help DP World strengthen its role in Latin American supply chains and support growing demand for time-sensitive cargo movement, e-commerce logistics and multimodal freight services.
National Airlines completes test flights for 2nd B777 freighter
US-based cargo carrier National Airlines has completed test flights for its second Boeing 777 Freighter in Everett and is expecting delivery of the aircraft in the coming weeks, further expanding its long-haul freighter fleet.
The development comes shortly after the airline took delivery of its first Boeing 777 Freighter in April, a milestone that marked a significant step in the company’s 35-year growth history and its fleet expansion plans.
National Airlines said its third and fourth Boeing 777 Freighters are expected to be delivered in the next quarter as the carrier continues to strengthen its cargo operations and international network.
The Boeing 777 Freighter is one of the largest and longest-range twin-engine freighters in operation and is widely used for long-haul cargo transportation. With the induction of the new aircraft, National Airlines is expanding its widebody freighter capabilities to support growing global cargo demand.
Apart from the new Boeing 777 Freighters, National Airlines operates a fleet that includes Boeing 747 freighters and passenger aircraft used for cargo and charter operations.
The carrier has been involved in transporting general cargo, oversized shipments, humanitarian aid and military logistics across international markets.
Maersk Q1 air freight volumes rise 20%
amid strong cargo demand
Air freight volumes in the company’s Logistics & Services segment increased by 20 % year-on-year to 82,000 tonnes from 69,000 tonnes in the same period last year. The company said the increase in air cargo activity was mainly supported by improved transatlantic charter operations and stronger demand across key trade lanes.
Revenue in the Transported by Maersk business, which includes air freight operations, rose by 10 % to $ 1.8 billion during the quarter. Growth was also supported by stronger First Mile performance, where cargo volumes increased by 9.3 % to 1.76 million FFE.
Maersk said global air freight demand remained solid during the quarter, with estimated market growth ranging between 3.5 % and 5.5 % year-on-year. Demand continued to be driven by exports from Far East Asia, while imports into Europe and North America also remained strong.
The company highlighted that AI-related products, including semiconductors, servers and computing equipment, became a major contributor to air cargo demand. Demand for around 100 AI-related product categories increased by 22% year-on-year during January and February 2026, especially on trade routes between Far East Asia and North America.
The company added that international cargo load factors averaged 51.6 % during the quarter, up 0.8 %age points year-on-year. Cargo load factor refers to how much cargo capacity is being utilised on aircraft. Maersk said air cargo utilisation increased further after the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, particularly across Africa and Asia-Pacific routes, although North America recorded a slight decline.
Air freight rates averaged $ 2.1 per kilogram during the first quarter, down 1.5 % from last year. However, rates began rising again in March and reached $ 2.4 per kilogram by the end of the month following disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict.
The strong performance in air freight contributed to improved earnings in Maersk’s Logistics & Services business. The segment reported revenue of $ 3.8 billion during the quarter, up 8.7 % year-on-year, while EBIT increased by 22 % to $ 173 million. The EBIT margin improved from 4.1 % to 4.6 %, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of year-on-year margin improvement.
Maersk said the improved profitability was supported by stronger performance across warehousing, air freight, middle mile logistics and first mile operations, along with continued cost discipline and operational efficiencies.
The company added that improved product mix and better operating leverage also supported margins. Operating leverage means the company generated more revenue without a similar increase in costs.
Swissport reports €3.9 billion revenue
in 2025 ahead of 30th year
Swissport reported record revenues of €3.9 billion in 2025 as the aviation services company expanded its global network, increased cargo handling capacity and invested in technology, automation and sustainability initiatives ahead of its 30th anniversary in 2026.
The company said underlying revenue growth reached 9.3 per cent across its core businesses during the year. Airport ground operations recorded growth of 4 per percent, while air cargo operations rose 10 per cent and hospitality services increased 22 per cent year on year.
Swissport operates across 312 airports in 49 countries. During 2025, the company handled 4 million flights, served 243 million passengers and processed 5.2 million tonnes of cargo through its network of 126 warehouses. Its Aspire Pre-Flight Hospitality division, which manages 110 airport lounges worldwide, served 6.4 million guests during the year.
The company expanded its footprint during the year by entering the Chinese market through operations at Shanghai Pudong Airport, one of the world’s largest cargo hubs. Swissport also expanded its Saudi Arabian network to 16 airports and strengthened its UK operations through the acquisition of ASC, increasing its presence at London Heathrow and Gatwick airports.
Swissport also expanded warehouse capacity to address rising e-commerce demand. The company announced major warehouse expansions in Manchester, the East Midlands and Liège. Its Aspire lounge network added 10 new lounges in Morocco during the year.
“As we approach our 30th anniversary in 2026, Swissport is stronger than ever and well positioned for the future,” said Warwick Brady, President and CEO of Swissport International. “Leveraging our scale, unique operating model and diversified portfolio, we are building a leading technology and AI-enabled platform for industry consolidation, underpinned by a strong balance sheet and sustained investment in our people.
Through disciplined transformation, we have stayed ahead of the market, expanded margins and strengthened our long-term competitive position. Our 63,000 professionals are central to our success. Their expertise, commitment and focus on safety and operational excellence set us apart and drive everything we do.
With three decades of Swiss precision, we deliver world-class services to more than 850 airline partners globally. We remain focused on disciplined growth, margin expansion and resilience across core and high-growth markets.
Above all, our teams are shaping the future of sustainable aviation services powering global travel, trade and innovation and building on our legacy of excellence since 1996.”
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.
Comments
Post a Comment