Specialised reefer ships are in high demand as carriers grapple to get a grip on a global reefer equipment shortage. Not only have charter spot rates for conventional units soared to decade highs, capacity is expected to rise in 2021 for the first time in ‘many years’

Antwerp-based reefer specialist forms joint venture with logistics group Jamaica Producers in the takeover of conventional reefer operator Geest Line, which has served the Caribbean and Latin America markets for over 65 years

It is not clear what caused the grounding. Initial reports suggested that Ever Given had experienced engine trouble, but a spokesman for BSM, the vessel’s technical managers, confirmed that an initial investigation has ruled out any suggestion of mechanical or technical failure

The San Pedro Bay ports’ clean air action plan, with tight at-berth regulations, does not apply to emissions of particulate matter from ships at anchor, which fall under the jurisdiction of the California Air Resources Board 

Lines had imposed surcharges on reefer containers going into Shanghai and Tianjin in February when a shortage of truck drivers at the height of the coronavirus outbreak caused congestion issues. The current hold-up is due to more stringent checks on frozen food imports involving full testing and disinfection of them by the Chinese authorities

MSC is cashing in on the demand for high-value fruits heading into the Chinese market. In addition to tailoring itself to the busy Chilean cherry season, the new service will lead up into the Chinese New Year period as well. Chilean cherry exporters expect exports to grow 36% in the 2020-21 season