紧急！欧洲多个港口面临疫情以来最严重拥堵

Core Insights - European ports are experiencing the most severe congestion crisis since the COVID-19 pandemic, with major ports like Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Bremen facing unprecedented pressure on their shipping and inland logistics systems [1][2][7] Port Congestion Details - Average waiting times for vessels at major European ports have surged, with Rotterdam averaging 77 hours and Antwerp 66 hours. Some container ships are facing queue times of 7 to 14 days, significantly impacting cargo flow and supply chain operations [2][3] - The "ONE Treasure" vessel at Rotterdam experienced a delay of 267.5 hours, exceeding 11 days, highlighting the severity of the situation [4][6] Contributing Factors - The congestion crisis is attributed to multiple external shocks and systemic vulnerabilities, including changes in U.S. tariff policies that have forced shipping companies to adjust their routes [7][8] - An increase in Asian goods flowing to Europe, with a year-on-year growth of 7%, has overwhelmed European ports [8] - Environmental factors, such as the historic low water levels in the Rhine River due to drought, have further complicated inland transportation, leading to container backlogs [8] - The dissolution of the 2M vessel-sharing agreement between major shipping companies has caused operational disruptions at European terminals [8] Shipping Companies' Responses - Shipping companies are implementing emergency measures to mitigate congestion, such as Maersk rerouting its transatlantic service to bypass Rotterdam and consider alternative southern European ports [10] - Many shipping lines are charging congestion surcharges to cover increased costs from delays and are renting additional storage space to alleviate operational pressures [10] Impact on Supply Chain - The congestion is affecting the entire European supply chain, with logistics companies reporting frequent cancellations of truck and rail services, leading to delayed deliveries and increased inventory costs for importers [11] - Local manufacturing is also impacted, with raw material shortages disrupting production schedules [11] - Analysts warn that the congestion is unlikely to ease in the short term, especially with the upcoming summer peak season exacerbating the situation [11] Systemic Issues and Future Outlook - The current congestion reflects systemic issues rather than isolated incidents, emphasizing the need for accelerated digital and automated reforms in ports to prevent future crises [11] - The global shipping industry, which was slowly recovering post-pandemic, now faces renewed challenges, underscoring the fragility of supply chains amid geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events [11]