There are fresh concerns from logistics experts that the delays in the English Channel could impact supply chains over the upcoming peak season.
This means Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas shopping might be late this year.
New research from a global supply chain collaboration network, Vinturas, states that 43% of UK business leaders experienced delays in the English Channel in 2024.
A further 40% claimed that they’d experienced delays in the Suez Canal this year, and 33% reported delays in the Panama Canal.
Over 400 global business leaders with decision-making responsibility for shipping and international logistics took part in this survey.
More delayed shipments warns survey
Logistics Manager reports that 13% of supply chain shipments have been delayed in 2024 so far.
The bulk of respondents (70%) are concerned about regulatory problems and compliance violations that can affect supply chains.
What’s the latest in the Suez Canal?
The Suez Canal revenues have fallen by $8 billion since the war between Israel and Gaza, claims Egypt’s foreign affairs minister Badr Abdelatty.
The geopolitical tension in the region has disrupted navigation routes and directly impacted logistic operations in the Suez Canal.
The decline translates to a monthly loss for Egypt exceeding $600 million. Egypt is one of the countries most affected by this.
Red Sea crises: No end in sight
There is still no light at the end of the tunnel regarding the Red Sea crisis. It’s not easing, and it is significantly impacting US businesses.
Last week Locate2u reported on the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) which sent US president Joe Biden a letter.
It was pleading for the US government to increase its efforts to protect commercial shipping significantly.
The organization also sent a letter to the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX).
The letter highlights that businesses are facing challenges around the world due to the Red Sea crisis.
NOW READ: Red Sea crisis causes widespread havoc for EU and UK businesses
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About the author
Mia is a multi-award-winning journalist. She has more than 14 years of experience in mainstream media. She's covered many historic moments that happened in Africa and internationally. She has a strong focus on human interest stories, to bring her readers and viewers closer to the topics at hand.