Week’s Trade Update: Focus on India and Canada
The US has doubled tariffs on products from India, from 25% to 50% as of August 27. The USA administration advised that the increase is a punitive action due to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, thus supporting the war in Ukraine. This action has prompted India to ramp up efforts to finalize trade agreements with other countries, primarily the European Union. Earlier this year, trade talks with the USA were at a much more positive state, including India’s February reduction of tariffs on USA bourbon from 150% to 100%. The UK agreement with India is on track to continue to reduce tariffs on Scotch Whisky, gradually lowering tariffs to around 40% over a few years. The planned visit by US trade negotiators to India scheduled for August 25-29 was abruptly cancelled. Meanwhile, Canada will ease some retaliatory tariffs starting September 1 to align with USMCA exemptions, signaling progress after productive meetings between US and Canadian trade officials aimed at reducing broader tariff pressures.
Recent Update on Congestion at Manzanillo Port
Manzanillo is still grappling with serious congestion stemming from a combination of past labor disruptions and structural inefficiencies. A customs strike in mid-May left more than 5,000 trucks stranded, with some waiting in line for up to 12 hours. Customs inspections have since slowed to over 72 hours, while container yards are overwhelmed, significantly delaying pickup appointments and pushing storage fees to around USD?150 per container per day after just seven days. As of mid-June, ship waiting times have stretched to about 1.8 days, the longest so far this year, while container throughput has fallen by approximately 50%, with delays stretching up to two weeks. Additionally, port traffic issues are delaying appointment systems and rescheduled entries, further compounding operational disruptions.
Port of Hamburg Disruption
From August 18, 2025, through April 30, 2026, construction for the Hamburg district heating project will impact operations. Shunting tracks 122–126 will be shortened, resulting in longer shunting times and potential delays in loading, departures, and occasional cancellations. While all efforts are being made to minimize disruption, we ask that you factor these circumstances into your transport planning and appreciate your cooperation.
Albatrans LCL Reefer Groupage
Upcoming sailings from France and Italy to NY are scheduled for departures on September 15 and September30. Convenient per case rate from door to NY warehouse available for your LCL shipments! Should you have any small shipments that need to move quickly, please send us a request.
WSSA October Market Briefings and Port Tours
Join us for upcoming events at East Coast ports of Boston, Norfolk and NY/NJ! We will be bringing in industry experts and port officials to discuss market updates, tariff impacts, and give you the opportunity to see ports in action. Detailed information on each event is available upon request.
Join us at Cape Wine in September!
WSSA and Albatrans representatives will be attending Cape Wine 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Wine is the premier event showcasing South Africa wines. Organized by Wines of South Africa (WOSA), over 100 South African wineries will be exhibiting. If any of you are attending or exhibiting and would like to meet with our team, please let us know.