JUPITER SEA & AIR
SERVICES PVT. LTD, EGMORE – CHENNAI, INDIA.
E-MAIL : Robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in Mobile : +91 98407 85202
Corporate News Letter for Thursday July 02, 2026
Today’s Exchange Rates
|
CURRENCY▲ |
PRICE |
CHANGE |
%CHANGE |
OPEN |
PREV.CLOSE |
DAY's LOW-HIGH |
|
95.24 |
0.57 |
0.602091 |
94.68 |
94.67 |
94.61- 95.2875 |
|
|
1.1382 |
-0.004 |
0.350197 |
1.1422 |
1.1422 |
1.1382- 1.1423 |
|
|
126.1725 |
0.872498 |
0.696327 |
125.3496 |
125.30 |
125.2856- 126.2839 |
|
|
108.4669 |
0.570602 |
0.528843 |
108.0101 |
107.8963 |
107.9439- 108.5273 |
|
|
162.705 |
0.154999 |
0.095355 |
162.55 |
162.55 |
162.532- 162.841 |
|
|
1.3239 |
-0.0023 |
-0.17343 |
1.3261 |
1.3262 |
1.3229- 1.3262 |
|
|
0.5854 |
0.0027 |
0.463355 |
0.5825 |
0.5827 |
0.5814- 0.5857 |
/// Sea Cargo News ///
Vizhinjam Port Crosses 1,000-Vessel
Milestone in Record Time
Vizhinjam International Seaport has achieved a major operational milestone by handling its 1,000th vessel arrival in less than two years of commercial operations.
The achievement highlights the port’s rapid
growth as an emerging transshipment hub on India’s coastline. Operated by Adani
Ports and Special Economic Zone, Vizhinjam Port has expanded its global
connectivity by attracting large container vessels and strengthening India’s
position in international maritime trade.
The milestone reflects the port’s advanced
infrastructure, deep-water capabilities, and strategic location near key global
shipping routes. With continued expansion plans, Vizhinjam aims to increase
cargo handling capacity and compete with major regional transshipment hubs.
Industry observers expect the port’s growing
vessel traffic to support India’s logistics sector, reduce dependence on
overseas trans-shipment centres and boost trade efficiency across global
shipping networks.
Maersk
provides Venezuela operations update
Maersk has provided an operational update following the recent earthquake in Venezuela, confirming that commercial operations at the Port of La Guaira remain suspended.
The carrier said authorities have not yet
authorised the resumption of commercial activities at the port. As a result,
all import and export shipments through La Gaira remain on hold until further
notice.
Maersk continues to operate through all other
Venezuelan ports with La Guaira remaining the only exception.
The company has also suspended acceptance of
new bookings from its Intra-Americas network to La-Guaira. However, bookings
from all other origins to the port will continue to be accepted until further
notice.
In addition, customers have been instructed
to return empty containers to Maersk’s container depot in Puerto Cabello until
further notice.
Maersk said it is working with local teams
and authorities to minimize disruption to customer’s supply chains and will
provide further updates as the situation develops.
Global shipping and logistics giant A.P. Moller–Maersk is set to place an order for 1,000 steel containers with DCM Shriram International Ltd (DSIL), marking a significant step in India's efforts to develop a domestic container manufacturing industry and reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates the global market.
The announcement is expected to be made on
July 3 at Star Track Terminals' Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Dadri, Uttar
Pradesh, during an event attended by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and
Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.
The event will also witness the unveiling and
flagging off of two prototype containers manufactured by DCM Shriram at its
Faridabad facility according to Maersk's specifications.
Nhava Sheva Congestion Deepens Amid Continued Suspension of Key CFS
As congestion at Nhava Sheva continues to strain India's busiest container gateway, the prolonged suspension of one of the port ecosystem's largest Container Freight Stations (CFSs) is adding further pressure to an already stressed logistics chain, raising concerns across the EXIM community.
The issue stems from a customs suspension
linked to three import containers handled during late March and early April
2026.
According to sources familiar with the matter,
in at least one instance, suspicious activity was reportedly detected by the
CFS's own operational staff during cargo handling, following which authorities
were alerted and subsequent action was initiated against those allegedly
involved.
Trump Opposes Any Strait of Hormuz Shipping Fees in Potential Iran Deal
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it would be "unacceptable" for any future agreement with Iran to include fees on shipping or maritime activities through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, warning that such a move would set a precedent for other global waterways.
Speaking to reporters alongside NATO
Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said imposing transit charges in the Strait
of Hormuz would be a "game changer" and something the United States
would not support.
"That would be unacceptable to me
because we have numerous straits and if you did that for them, you'd have to do
it for other people," Trump said when asked whether he would oppose a
final Iran deal containing shipping fees.
The US President also expressed confidence in
ongoing negotiations with Iran, claiming that Tehran was making significant
concessions following recent military tensions.
Interasia Lines Names Largest-Ever 7,000 TEU Containership “Interasia Ambition”
Container shipping company Interasia Lines has officially named its new 7,000 TEU containership, “Interasia Ambition,” marking a significant milestone in the company's fleet expansion and modernization strategy.
The naming ceremony was held on June 18 at
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. in Shanghai. Ms. Tammy Chan, Deputy
Vice President of Interasia Lines, served as the vessel's sponsor during the
ceremony attended by company representatives, partners, and industry guests.
According to the company, Interasia Ambition
is the largest containership ever ordered by Interasia since its establishment,
underscoring its commitment to enhancing service capacity and strengthening its
position in key Asian trade lanes.
The vessel has been designed with a strong
focus on environmental performance and fuel efficiency. It is equipped with a
new generation high efficiency main engine and incorporates multiple
energy-saving and emission reduction technologies aimed at meeting current
international maritime environmental regulations. The company said these
features reflect its ongoing efforts to balance operational efficiency with
sustainability objectives.
Upon delivery, the 7,000 TEU vessel will be
deployed on Interasia’s ICI Service, linking major ports in China, Southeast
Asia and India. The service connects Qingdao – Shanghai – Ningbo – Nansha –
Port Klang and key Indian ports, further enhancing the carrier’s network
coverage and capacity on the important China-India trade corridor.
The addition of Interasia Ambition is
expected to support growing cargo demand between China and India while strengthening
the company’s service reliability and operational capabilities across the
region.
Interasia Lines expressed appreciation to its
employees, partners and guests who participated in the naming ceremony and
celebrated the company’s latest fleet milestone.
Duqm Port Emerges as a Strategic
Gateway for Global Trade Growth
Port of Duqm is gaining increasing strategic importance in global trade networks as its location, infrastructure capabilities, and expansion plans position it as an emerging maritime gateway connecting major international markets.
Located along the Arabian Sea outside the
congested Strait of Hormuz, Duqm Port offers access to key shipping routes
linking Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Its strategic position
provides opportunities for businesses seeking alternative logistics routes and
improved supply chain flexibility.
The port is being developed as part of Oman’s
broader economic diversification strategy, with investments focused on
enhancing container handling, industrial activities, logistics services, and
maritime infrastructure.
Its integrated approach combines port
operations with industrial zones and commercial developments to attract global
trade and manufacturing activity.
As global supply chain continue to adapt to
changing trade patterns and the need for resilient transport networks, Duqm
Port is expected to play a larger role in regional and international cargo
movement.
With ongoing development and growing interest
from shipping and logistics companies, Duqm is emerging as a key hub supporting
future trade growth and strengthening Oman’s position in global maritime commerce.
/// Air Cargo News ///
China eCommerce exports stay in the red
China's low-value e-commerce exports fell 7% year-on-year in May 2026, extending a contraction that has persisted across the past six months, according to the latest data from Trade and Transport Group's analysis of China Customs figures.
The
decline is consistent with a trend that has gathered momentum since mid-2025.
Trade and Transport Group data shows year-on-year growth turning negative from
around September 2025, with monthly readings since then ranging between -4% and
-11% before May’s -7% reading.
The
12-month moving average, which peaked at 38.3% growth in 2024, has visibly
flattened, and the January-to-May 2026 cumulative figure stands at -7.3%. The
absence of any pre-emptive surge to Europe is a notable finding.
Despite
a new €3-per-item customs charge due to take effect on 1 July, exports to the
European Union recorded a 32% decline in April, with the January-to-May period
down 20.4%. Whether June data will reveal a last-minute uptick in traffic ahead
of the threshold change remains to be seen.
China-to-US
shipments posted a 26% year-on-year increase in May, a figure that warrants
context. May 2025 itself recorded a 40% decline, meaning the current recovery
is measured against a deeply suppressed base.
Volumes
remain substantially below pre-de minimis levels following the scrapping of the
exemption. What has partially filled the resulting gap in the US market is
conventional air cargo, particularly in technology-related shipments.
No
comparable substitution effect has emerged in Europe, where the structural void
left by the contraction in low-value parcel flows remains unfilled. Guangdong
Province and Shanghai are the dominant origin points for these exports, with
Asia Pacific, led by Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan, accounting for
the largest share of destination markets over the past 12 months, followed by
Europe and the Americas.
In
a notable move, Cainiao has introduced its “on-time guarantee” service for
China–US and China–Germany routes, pledging cross-border parcel delivery within
10 and 8 calendar days, respectively. If a shipment arrives late, compensation
is triggered automatically.
Following
its earlier rollout of a 5-day guarantee in the UK, this marks the first time
Cainiao has extended the product to the US and mainland Europe. Traditionally,
cross-border e-commerce delivery times have been little more than estimates.
With this launch, Cainiao, a global leader in e-commerce logistics, is turning
speed into a firm commitment, giving sellers and consumers greater confidence
and certainty.
On
the eve of the FIFA World Cup, Cainiao rolled out two new US-dedicated lines;
the Priority Light Parcel Line and the California Line. These are to help
merchants move World Cup bestsellers more efficiently.
The
tiered model targets different needs: lightweight, high-volume items move
faster through the Priority Light Parcel Line, while the California Line offers
cost-effective fulfilment into the West Coast.
With
demand surging at this World Cup moment, Cainiao is strengthening its North
American network, giving Chinese products a faster, more reliable path to the
global stage.
Industry braces as EU's €3 e-commerce duty takes effect
The European Union (EU) today began charging a temporary €3 customs duty on low-value e-commerce imports worth up to €150, ending a duty exemption that had been in place since 2008 for small consignments entering the bloc from outside the EU.
The
measure, which applies to goods sold primarily through online marketplaces, is
intended to address the rapid growth in low-value imports, strengthen customs
controls, improve consumer safety and create a more level playing field for
European retailers.
Introduced
as an interim step ahead of the EU's wider customs reform due in 2028, the new
duty is applied per product category in a shipment as it enters the EU customs
system.
Frederic
Horst, Managing Director, Trade and Transport Group, points out that volumes
have been declining for 6 months, which either indicates a drop in demand or
that a shift in supply chains was already underway around the time the measure
was announced in late 2025.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands-based air cargo consultant Rotate observed a 19%
drop in direct freighter capacity between China and Europe in 48 hours from
June 30 to July 1, 2026, in its Live Capacity data. However, they await
e-commerce demand data from July onwards to draw any conclusions.
Tim
van Leeuwen, Vice President and Head of Consulting at Rotate, pointed out that
earlier this year, France and Italy introduced their own €2 handling fee on
low-value e-commerce imports before the rest of the EU adopted a common
approach.
In
response, many e-commerce platforms diverted shipments to other EU entry
points, with cargo flows reportedly shifting from airports such as Milan
Malpensa (MXP) to Budapest (BUD) to avoid the additional charges.
“Our
capacity data shows that freighter capacity between China and France declined
25% in May, and between China and Italy fell 42%. Meanwhile, capacity to the
rest of Europe grew (in a sign of airlines shifting destinations).”
Will customs data become more important?
Regardless
of how companies structure their supply chains, one thing is becoming
increasingly important: the quality of the data that accompanies every
shipment. Odabas says major e-commerce platforms are already providing customs
authorities with highly detailed product information.
"We
provide customs authorities with detailed SKU-level information, allowing them
to see exactly what products were sold." He believes concerns over
widespread undervaluation of Chinese e-commerce shipments are largely outdated
because customs authorities can easily compare declared values with online
product listings.
"The
data is accurate, transparent and reliable, and customs authorities are
satisfied with its quality." Meanwhile, Paanukoski thinks the new regime
will inevitably accelerate investment in customs automation and digital
platforms as the volume of cross-border e-commerce continues to grow.
"It
is already impossible to manually or semi-manually handle e-commerce volumes
injected into the EU from third countries," Paanukoski notes that the
scale of imports alone makes automation essential. Nearly 6 billion parcels
entered the EU from non-EU countries in 2025. "With the adoption of the €3
per item duty charge, we add another crucial data element that the supply chain
needs to take into account and process accordingly."
What
happens next? These changes extend well beyond the €3 duty and point to a
broader transformation in how cross-border e-commerce will operate in the years
ahead. Paanukoski notes that data quality and regulatory compliance will become
as important as speed and cost.
"Those
supply chain members who don't manipulate data, who ensure data quality and
consistency throughout the delivery process, will reign supreme in my view.”
"If your business is for a quick win, it is one story, but if you are
playing a long game, take compliance seriously. In the long run, you will only
benefit, as this will be your competitive advantage.”
For
logistics companies still preparing for the new rules, Paanukoski's advice is
straightforward. "Adapt and play by the book because by doing so you will
solidify your reputation, and your local partners' reputation, with EU Customs.
In the long run, that will be one of your company's major assets."
Looking
ahead, Odabas believes higher costs may temporarily slow online shopping but
will not reverse the long-term growth of e-commerce. "You cannot stop
e-commerce. It has become part of everyday life in Europe."
He
points out that Chinese online marketplaces have permanently changed the retail
landscape by connecting consumers directly with manufacturers, reducing the
role of traditional intermediaries.
"There
may be a temporary slowdown because of higher costs, but I believe demand will
recover."
MIMIT, Radia renew pact to advance
WindRunner cargo aircraft
The Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) and aerospace company Radia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of WindRunner, a next-generation ultra-large cargo aircraft, and explore related industrial development opportunities in Italy.
WindRunner
is being developed as the world's largest aircraft, designed to transport
outsized cargo directly to locations that cannot be reached through
conventional logistics systems. According to Radia, the programme aims to
address gaps in global logistics and strategic mobility across sectors
including defence, energy, industrial manufacturing and aerospace.
The
aircraft is intended to reduce delivery timelines from months to days or even
hours, helping to strengthen supply chain resilience for both national security
and commercial applications.
The
aircraft's large cargo capacity and ability to operate from compacted dirt
runways are expected to support strategic mobility, defence logistics, energy
infrastructure deployment, aerospace manufacturing, humanitarian response
missions and other industrial applications.
"As
strategic mobility requirements continue to grow, allied nations will require
new airlift capabilities," said Mark Lundstrom, Founder and CEO of Radia.
"No new strategic airlift aircraft has entered production anywhere in the
world in more than a decade. WindRunner is being developed to help address that
gap by providing a new capability for transporting mission-critical, outsized
cargo.
We
are proud to strengthen our collaboration with MIMIT and with Italy's aerospace
and industrial sectors as we advance this transformational programme."
The
Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) and aerospace company
Radia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the
development of WindRunner, a next-generation ultra-large cargo aircraft, and
explore related industrial development opportunities in Italy.
WindRunner
is being developed as the world's largest aircraft, designed to transport
outsized cargo directly to locations that cannot be reached through
conventional logistics systems. According to Radia, the programme aims to
address gaps in global logistics and strategic mobility across sectors
including defence, energy, industrial manufacturing and aerospace.
The
aircraft is intended to reduce delivery timelines from months to days or even
hours, helping to strengthen supply chain resilience for both national security
and commercial applications.
The
aircraft's large cargo capacity and ability to operate from compacted dirt
runways are expected to support strategic mobility, defence logistics, energy
infrastructure deployment, aerospace manufacturing, humanitarian response
missions and other industrial applications.
"As
strategic mobility requirements continue to grow, allied nations will require
new airlift capabilities," said Mark Lundstrom, Founder and CEO of Radia.
"No new strategic airlift aircraft has entered production anywhere in the
world in more than a decade.
WindRunner
is being developed to help address that gap by providing a new capability for
transporting mission-critical, outsized cargo. We are proud to strengthen our
collaboration with MIMIT and with Italy's aerospace and industrial sectors as
we advance this transformational programme."
Under
the MoU, MIMIT and Radia will work together to engage Italy's aerospace and
industrial sectors in the WindRunner programme, including potential
contributions from organisations involved in manufacturing, engineering and
supply chain operations.
The
agreement is intended to leverage Italy's industrial expertise while supporting
wider transatlantic industrial cooperation. Italy already plays a key role in
Radia's international operations, with Rome serving as one of the company's
principal headquarters outside the United States.
The
agreement also establishes a framework for institutional and technical
collaboration to support the programme. The parties will coordinate with
regional stakeholders, particularly in the Campania and Puglia regions, while
assessing opportunities for industrial participation across Italy.
The
organisations noted that the MoU provides a framework for cooperation, and that
any future investments or programme decisions arising from the agreement will
be subject to further analysis, approvals and additional agreements.
TCE renews Air Transat deal, expands
cargo reach into Brazil
TCE has renewed its cargo management agreement with Canadian carrier Air Transat and expanded its role under the airline's cargo operations as the carrier launches services to Brazil, marking a new phase in a partnership that began in 2019.
The
renewed contract sees TCE taking full responsibility for Air Transat's cargo
business under its Total Cargo Management (TCM) model, broadening the scope of
services provided to the airline across multiple international markets. The
agreement also supports Air Transat's entry into Brazil, a market expected to
provide additional cargo capacity and connectivity for a range of industries.
Sarah
Scheibe, Managing Director of TCE, said the company delivers a broad portfolio
of services focused on air cargo safety, security and quality. She said,
"We have been working with Air Transat since 2019, but in 2026 we are now
fully leading the carrier under our Total Cargo Management concept with an
expanded cargo management scope.
The
renewed agreement further strengthens our long-term collaboration and expands
the scope of services with a comprehensive cargo management approach. “Together
with our partner GSAs from Global GSA Group and ECS Group, we provide Air
Transat cargo services across multiple markets worldwide, including France, the
Netherlands, Spain, and the UK.
New
countries added this year include Brazil, Iceland, Morocco, and Senegal,
further expanding the global cargo network.” The expansion into Brazil adds a
new cargo corridor to Air Transat's network. The operation currently consists
of three weekly flights operated by Airbus A330 aircraft, with each flight
offering more than 12 tonnes of cargo capacity.
The
route is designed to accommodate a range of shipments, including general cargo,
automotive freight and perishable goods. The development reflects Air Transat's
efforts to strengthen its cargo presence beyond its established transatlantic
markets while creating new opportunities for freight movement between Brazil,
Canada and other international destinations served through its network.
Scheibe
said the relationship between the two companies has developed significantly
over the past several years, moving beyond a conventional service arrangement
toward a more integrated operating model. She said: “Since the beginning of the
collaboration, the partnership has evolved into a much closer and more
integrated cooperation.
Increased
transparency, stronger operational insights, and excellent teamwork between all
companies involved have been key drivers of the partnership's success. “The
renewed agreement focuses on strengthening the partnership, growing together
strategically, expanding the cargo network, and further developing special
commodity segments.”
The
agreement also highlights the role of collaboration between TCE, Global GSA
Group and ECS Group in managing Air Transat's cargo activities across multiple
regions. By extending coverage into additional countries, the partners aim to
support network growth while maintaining operational oversight and service
consistency.
TCE's
Total Cargo Management model combines commercial cargo management with
operational supervision, customs support and reporting functions. The company
says the approach is intended to provide airlines with end-to-end visibility
and coordination across cargo operations while supporting regulatory compliance
and cargo traceability.
The
company currently maintains a presence at more than 230 airports worldwide and
oversees more than 150,000 tonnes of cargo annually. Through its expanded
mandate with Air Transat, TCE is expected to play a larger role in supporting
the airline's cargo growth strategy as it develops new markets and commodity
segments.
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