Surging global trade puts mounting pressure on ports

Global shipping disruptions amid Middle East tensions and Strait of Hormuz crisis have intensified port congestion, with Asian backlogs reaching 4.3 mn TEU, surpassing pandemic peaks. Rerouted vessels, longer transit times and terminal bottlenecks are driving delays of up to 45 days at some ports. Freight volatility and rising costs are forcing businesses to prioritise supply chain reliability.