We know that an uncertain global environment brings challenges for your logistics. That’s why at TKL Logistics we keep you informed about the latest changes that may affect your shipments – and how we can help you navigate this new reality. Here are the key updates right now.
Ocean Freight
Ongoing disruptions in ports affecting routes and punctuality
As you may have noticed, since the beginning of the year there have been disruptions in several European transshipment ports. Although vessel punctuality has improved over the past six months, congestion and capacity issues at the ports sometimes force carriers to skip planned calls, which has had impact on feeder vessel rotations. Unfortunately, this is not always reflected in punctuality statistics, since they only measure arrivals at ports that are actually called.
To improve flows, MSC has chosen to completely remove Antwerp from two of its Asia–North Europe services. At the same time, the Gemini Alliance is making a strategic change by reintroducing direct calls to Gothenburg, which they hope will lead to better service and shorter lead times for importers to Scandinavia. Although the congestion seems to have eased somewhat in the transshipment ports, there is still a risk of late notifications of delays in ETA as a result of this.
Port fees for Chinese vessels in U.S. ports
As we previously informed, the United States has decided to introduce new fees for Chinese vessels calling at U.S. ports. Starting October 14, 2025, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) will implement new port charges targeting vessels with ties to China (this also applies if the vessel was built in China but operated by a global carrier). The major global carriers have already announced plans to reposition their fleets to avoid the new costs altogether. Chinese carriers, however, have limited possibilities to make the same adjustments, meaning they are more likely to be affected once the rules take effect.
New collective agreement for dockworkers signed
After several months of conflict, Ports of Sweden and the Swedish Dockworkers’ Union (HF) signed a new collective agreement on September 11, 2025. This agreement means that the port conflict ongoing since May is now resolved, and peace obligations apply in all Swedish ports. The new agreement is valid until April 30, 2027.
Updates on EU regulations
CSRD
The European Commission has decided on a targeted “quick fix” for companies already covered by the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) – the so-called “wave one” companies. The purpose is to provide a necessary pause in certain reporting requirements during the fiscal years 2025 and 2026. These temporary relaxations mean that companies during this period will not need to report full information within certain areas.
EUDR
From December 30, 2025, full compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation will be required. The aim is to prevent trade in goods that contribute to deforestation and forest degradation globally. The commodities covered by the regulation are cocoa, coffee, palm oil, natural rubber, soy, timber, and cattle.
The new rules mean that:
-
Importers must submit a Due Diligence Statement (DDS) in the EUIS system before goods covered by the regulation can be imported.
-
Exporters and re-importers that are large companies must also submit a DDS.
-
Once a DDS has been submitted, you will receive a reference number, which you must provide to us before we can complete the customs declaration.
If the DDS is missing or contains incorrect information, products risk being stopped at customs or denied market access. If you have further questions about how the EUDR affects your business, you are welcome to contact us and we will assist you.
Information on Rail Freight from China
China has introduced a new law which, as of October 1, prohibits the purchase of export/import documents via third parties. For some suppliers, this has previously been arranged through our office in China, but now factories must purchase a license themselves, granting them the right to handle import/export and provide their own customs documents in order for rail transport to take place. This requirement already applies for air and ocean transport, but now also includes rail. Our offices in China are in dialogue about this with your suppliers who are booking rail shipments.
Golden Week in China
Golden Week is one of China’s largest national holidays and this year takes place from October 1–8. During this week, most factories, offices, and government authorities close, meaning production largely comes to a standstill. The shutdown typically results in limited capacity before Golden Week, as many aim to ship their cargo before the holiday. As an importer, you can also expect longer lead times for certain shipments around the shutdown, as well as some delays once production resumes.
Challenges in Road Freight from Germany and Italy
Due to extensive railway maintenance and capacity shortages in Italy and Germany, road freight from these countries may be affected by longer lead times. It is primarily the railways that are being upgraded in stages. This causes some intermodal transports to shift to road, which increases pressure on truck capacity. We recommend planning your bookings well in advance, if possible, to minimize the risk of disruptions.
We continue to closely monitor developments and will keep you updated on any changes that may affect your business. If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to reach out to us at TKL Logistics!