The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has warned importers and exporters in the country to make “necessary operational adjustments” to limit the impact of upcoming delays caused by the latest outbreak of COVID-19 in China and subsequent closure of the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan.
The PPA said businesses should early preparation is key to reducing the negative impact of the delays in daily operations and will allow for greater flexibility.
As of 17 August 2021, the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan, the world’s third-largest container port, continues to shut one of its terminals for the 7th straight day due to the pandemic.
Other major ports in the region likewise reported congestion owing to the lingering effect of the pandemic, the PPA said.
The majority of Philippine imports and exports, on the other hand, pass through these transhipment ports as the country remains as a feeder economy.
PPA General Manager Jay Daniel R. Santiago said, “We need to prepare. Eventually, the delays in cargo shipments will catch up with us due to the congestion being experienced in these transhipment ports.
“We are encouraging all importers and exporters to take the necessary steps to adjust and secure their operations to mitigate the impact of the slowdowns or partial closures of the big ports in their overall operations.
“PPA assures the shippers that Philippine ports, can handle the bulk of the delayed shipments when conditions at the transhipment ports start to normalise.”
