The two largest countries in the Asia Pacific, China and India, are coping with the current COVID-19 situation. Here are some essential updates for our clients.
China
China is slowly showing signs of recovery, with local factories in Wuhan are resuming operation, while nearly 70% of office workers are returning to their office.
Good news is that our partner CEVA has obtained a trucking permit into Wuhan. This update means we can resume our pickup and delivery solutions in the area.
There may be some disruptions in the vessel turnaround time and schedules as vessels coming from China, as a 14-day quarantine is now mandatory.
We are continuing to monitor the situation as it develops.
India
India is under a nationwide lockdown until 3 May. The government has suspended all passenger transport, international passenger flights and commercial activities, while cargo trains remain operational. The lack of human resources is contributing to significant logistics disruptions.
Air
While India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DCGA) has suspended international commercial passenger flights, it is business usual for domestic and foreign cargo operations. DCGA has also given the green light to passenger planes operating as cargo hauliers.
Airlines operating international freight services to India are Lufthansa, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Turkish Airlines and FedEx. Qatar Airways announced earlier this month to step up their air freight capacity in the country. In contrast, Lufthansa Cargo has announced that they will limit their service to Bangalore and Chennai only.
Truckers are only operating for medicines, perishables and pharmaceuticals products with diminished human resources. Airport custom clearance and airport ground handling agencies are also functioning at a minimum level.
Sea
While all cargo yard depots and container freight stations are partially operational, the slashed human resources are hindering their overall operational effectiveness. With no long haul interstate or city truck movements, shipments are likely to face severe delay as a result.
Carrier functionings, ports and custom brokerage are still operational at a limited level. Import and export document submissions, as well as payment, are available via digital means.
What does this mean?
We're working very closely with our last-mile partners to minimise any delays. Count on us in doing our best to ensure timely and safe deliveries for your parcels.
Right now, stay calm and stay home. We will get through COVID-19 together. With countries and borders closing, moving goods can be a hassle. Aersure will continue to ensure your business remains unaffected as much as we can, wherever you are.
If you have relief or medical goods moving to countries with closed borders, contact us to bring the supplies to those in need.