Author: GPSM

We would like to provide you with an update regarding the recent severe weather impacting parts of China and the potential effect on international shipping schedules.

Current Situation

Recent typhoon activity, including Typhoon Bavi and the earlier Typhoon Maysak, has affected several major ports across China. Strong winds, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions have resulted in temporary port closures, vessel schedule changes and congestion across parts of the country’s east coast.

The ports most impacted include:

• Shanghai (SHA)
• Ningbo (NGB)
• Qingdao (TAO)
• Taicang (TXG)

Although port operations have largely resumed, many shipping lines continue to experience congestion, vessel queues and schedule adjustments as they work through the backlog created by the weather disruptions. Transit times may be extended while normal operations are restored.

Northern China

Typhoon Bavi has continued moving inland after making landfall in eastern China, bringing significant rainfall and flooding to parts of eastern and northeastern China. While the storm has weakened, transport disruptions and recovery efforts are continuing in some regions, including around Qingdao and further north. Delays to shipping schedules may persist until port congestion eases.

Southern China

Following the impacts of Typhoon Maysak, operations at southern ports, including Qinzhou, have progressively resumed. However, some carriers may continue to experience minor delays as equipment and vessel schedules return to normal.

What This Means for Your Shipments

Customers with cargo moving through the affected regions should allow additional transit time, as shipping schedules may continue to be adjusted over the coming days. The extent of any delay will depend on individual shipping line recovery plans and port congestion levels.

We are closely monitoring updates from shipping lines and port authorities and will continue to provide further advice as new information becomes available.

If you have any questions about your shipments or would like to discuss how these disruptions may affect your cargo, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

Industry Update – Changes to BICON: Stockfeed, Stockfeed Ingredients and Stockfeed Additives

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has announced an administrative update to BICON that will affect the way stockfeed products are classified for import into Australia.

What’s Changing?

Effective 28 July 2026, the existing “Stockfeed, stockfeed ingredients and stockfeed additives” BICON case will be retired.

All import conditions currently published under this case will be consolidated into the “Goods for animal consumption” BICON case.

This change has been introduced to better align BICON with biosecurity risk management principles, recognising that feeding materials for production animals present a high biosecurity risk. The revised approach provides a more consistent framework for assessing goods intended for animal consumption.

 

What This Means for Importers

From 28 July 2026, importers and customs brokers should:

• Review the applicable import conditions under the “Goods for animal consumption” BICON case.
• Ensure all import requirements continue to be met before goods are shipped to Australia.
• Update internal procedures and documentation, where required, to reflect the new BICON case.

Import Permits

This is an administrative change only and does not affect existing import permits. Current permits remain valid and no action is required for permits already in place.

Who Is Affected?

This update is relevant to:

• Importers of stockfeed, stockfeed ingredients and stockfeed additives
• Importers of goods for animal consumption
• Customs brokers
• Cargo and Traveller Operations
• Departmental staff

Need Assistance?

If you import products that may be affected by this change and would like assistance reviewing the applicable import conditions, please contact the GPSM Customs & Biosecurity team.

For further information, you can also contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on 1800 900 090 or via [email protected].

The China–Australia shipping market continues to experience high demand, with all major trade lanes currently operating at full capacity and heavily booked. As a result, ocean freight rates remain on the rise, and we are expecting further increases from 1st July. The ongoing vessel schedule disruptions have significantly reduced space availability for shipments in early to mid July.

Given space is an issue, allowing us to speak with your Supplier on cargo availability as early as possible will help us plan and book space for your cargo. Please give us as much notice as possible so we can proactively plan and get you the best options.

There is some positive news on the horizon. Three additional liner services—COSCO A3X, Maersk Qilin, and ZIM CO1—are scheduled to commence in late July. These new services are expected to increase available capacity, improve schedule reliability, and help ease upward pressure on freight rates. The expected easing will take some time to flow through to the shipping market. More news to follow as these new services are introduced.

Peak Season Surcharge is also expected to go ahead in July based on what shipping lines are advertising , for example , we have confirmation that PSS have been implemented for the Taiwan – Australia lanes . However, many are still unconfirmed, and we will have further news after 1st July.

We will continue to monitor the market closely and keep you informed as further updates become available.

Ongoing Shipping Disruptions Affecting China-Origin Cargo:

We would like to provide an update on the current shipping environment for cargo departing China.

While demand remains strong across many trade lanes, several operational challenges continue to impact vessel schedules and cargo movements. These include:

• Congestion at both origin and destination ports
• Vessel schedule changes and port omissions implemented by shipping lines to recover delays
• Blank sailings (cancelled voyages) resulting from network adjustments
• Equipment shortages and space constraints during peak shipping periods
• We are seeing Peak Season Surcharges advertised earlier than in recent years . This suggest Lines are expecting full vessels and have the confidence of implementing

As a result, even cargo that has been booked, customs cleared, and delivered to the terminal on time may still be subject to schedule changes or rolling to a later vessel.

Europe & Thailand Shipping Update

Europe

Shipments originating in Europe that tranship through major EU ports continue to experience routing changes. It is common for cargo to be reassigned between transhipment ports while in transit, which can result in multiple schedule updates throughout the shipment journey. The war in the middle east is continuing to impact across European ports.

Thailand

Capacity constraints remain evident on services from Thailand to Australia. Securing vessel space in line with cargo ready dates continues to be challenging across all Australian trade lanes. In recent weeks, some shipments originally booked on direct services have been transferred to transhipment services, which may impact transit times and schedule reliability.

How We Can Help

At GPSM, we work closely with a range of shipping lines and continuously monitor carrier performance and vessel schedules. If you have shipments that are particularly time-sensitive or where loading certainty is critical, please let us know before your booking is placed. Our team can review:

• Alternative carrier options
• Available vessel schedules
• Transit times
• Freight costs
• Service reliability

This allows us to recommend the most suitable shipping solution for your requirements.

Planning Ahead

While no carrier can provide an absolute guarantee against rolling in the current market conditions, selecting the right service can often improve the likelihood of cargo loading as scheduled. Early planning and communication remain the best ways to minimise disruption. If you have upcoming shipments with critical delivery requirements, please contact your GPSM representative so we can assist with the best available options.

How We Can Help

Readers of our recent Newsletters would have learnt of the introduction of PSS throughout the Asian region Indian Sub-Continent and Middle East ranging from USD350 – USD500. We will alert Customers of the final implemented increases once they are confirmed. Notices are still being received by GPSM since our last newsletter.

It is important to understand that the PSS is applicable based on the Shipped on Board date and not the date of booking for a particular vessel .

Thank you for your continued support and trust in GPSM.

The Terminal gate price of diesel fuel has remained steady for the past week as supply continues to be more consistent.

The GPSM trucking fuel levies that were applied from 1st June 2026 remain unchanged as follows:

• NSW   26%
• VIC     26%
• QLD    28%
• SA      30%
• WA     28%

Please note that the temporary halving of the diesel fuel excise will be ending the 30 June 2026. Because the government relief package is concluding, pump prices for diesel are expected to rise significantly from 1st July 2026. We will be actively monitoring prices over the coming weeks.

Please be aware various carriers are advising they will implement a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) for shipments to all Australian and New Zealand ports. Some show an effective date 1st July 2026, others are showing a later date in July such as 7th July or 14th July.

Origin: North East Asia, South East Asia, India Sub-Continent and Middle East Region

Destination: Australia & New Zealand

Peak Season Surcharge: US$ 350 – US$ 500 per TEU Dry/Reefer

Note: PSS will be applicable to shipments based on Shipped on Board Date.

Once these increases are confirmed as implemented GPSM will update your rates accordingly.

The war in the middle east, rising fuel costs, fuel security as well as capacity are being sighted as reasons to justify the PSS.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

As you will be aware, Sydney Tollway Charges are increased by tollway operators in February and August each year.

We have not passed on the last three (3) increases over the last 12 months, we have absorbed those increases in an effort to assist clients.

Unfortunately, we are now in a loss situation on Sydney Trucking Tollway Charges, and we must increase same from 1st June 2026.

The increases are minimal in most instances, we trust you understand that these out-of-pocket expenses need to be recouped to maintain an efficient and reliable trucking service.

GPSM is proud to announce that it has won the Founders Family Business Award at the Family Business Association (FBA) Awards, held last Thursday evening in Tasmania.

After winning the NSW category last year, GPSM went on to compete against leading family businesses from across Australia and New Zealand, ultimately taking out the overall award.

This achievement reflects the dedication, hard work and commitment of the entire GPSM team, along with the ongoing support of our families who have played an important role in the company’s success.

We would also like to sincerely thank our customers for their loyalty and support over the years. Their trust in GPSM has been fundamental to this achievement, and we are incredibly grateful for the relationships we have built together.

*Extract from Media Release supplied by Family Business Association

Aussie international freight forwarding company wins Founder’s Family Business Award

Recognised for its long-term relationships, excellent service and future-focused growth mindset – GPSM takes out this honour

The Family Business Excellence Awards celebrated its most outstanding contributors at the 2026 Family Business Conference: Asia-Pacific last night in Hobart hosted by Family Business Association.

Global Product Supply Management (GPSM) was announced as the 2026 winner of the Founder’s Family Business Award. This award celebrates the hard work of founders who are deeply entrenched in day-to-day operations and ensuring its success.

GPSM was established in 2002 and sets an industry benchmark with CommuniCater, a proprietary web portal providing shippers with clear supply chain visibility.

Bill Alexiou-Hucker, Company Director accepted the award alongside, Tarsha Harriott, IT Project Manager and CommuniCater Specialist GPSM. Bill said: “We started GPSM with a vision of creating something that we could pass on to our children.

“We used our philosophies of how we run our families to run, not only the business but also treat our employees and our clients. That has allowed us to grow from two people in 2002 to over 60 people today.

“I’ve met some wonderful people over the last couple of days and with businesses that are institutions within their own industries and to be standing up here in front of you and winning this award is quite humbling. I am actually lost for words.”

In Australia family businesses make up 70% of businesses and employ 50% of the workforce.

The sector is strong in Australia resulting in it shaping the economic and social landscape, contributing to regional growth, driving industry innovation and long term employment. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their values is a defining strength of the sector.

Catherine Sayer, CEO of Family Business Association, said the awards highlight the exceptional leadership and contribution of family run organisations.

“Family businesses are central to Australia’s economic strength and community identity. These awards honour the vision, resilience and commitment that family business leaders bring to their work every day. Their impact is significant, and deserves recognition,” said Sayer.

REVISION OF CHINA’S MARITIME CODE Governing Law and Shipper Liability Risks

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) would like to update members on the latest regarding the significant changes to China’s Maritime Code, which came into effect on 1 May 2026 and may have material implications for parties involved in international ocean shipments linked to Chinese ports. Further clarification has recently emerged regarding the practical operation of the revised Code: Key issues for shippers and forwarders 1. Mandatory application of Chinese maritime law The revised Maritime Code provides that all international sea transport contracts involving a Chinese port (whether for loading or discharge) will be subject to China’s Carriage of Goods by Sea law. This raises the prospect that: Governing law clauses nominating foreign law (e.g. English law or US COGSA) may be overridden in Chinese courts Arbitration or jurisdiction clauses specifying foreign venues may not prevail where enforcement is sought in China Disputes involving Chinese counterparties could ultimately need to be enforced under Chinese law, even where proceedings are commenced elsewhere While Chinese courts have historically been reluctant to recognise bespoke shipping contracts unless expressly provided for in Chinese law, the revised Code may strengthen the position of a party seeking to resist enforcement of foreign judgments or arbitral awards on public policy grounds. The practical impact of these provisions will ultimately depend on how the Chinese courts interpret and apply the revised Code. 2. Liability for unclaimed or abandoned cargo As previously advised, the revised Code introduces mandatory liability for unclaimed or abandoned cargo, transferring responsibility for: storage, removal, and disposal to the “shipper”, where they have been notified by the consignee without delay that delivery will not be accepted. Importantly: The “shipper” may not be the cargo owner Liability applies regardless of any agreed transfer of ownership or risk under Incoterms® This could expose exporters or forwarders to recovery obligations long after they believed the sale was complete Global Shippers Forum (GSF), of which the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) are Australia’s representative,  has sought clarification on whether Incoterms® delivery points will be recognised under the revised Code. Particular uncertainty remains for: FCA terms (commonly used for containerised cargo), where delivery occurs at the port or terminal of loading Situations where the buyer, not the exporter, arranges ocean transport but subsequently refuses to accept delivery in China Freight forwarders in China are already assessing their exposure with insurers and, in some cases, advising importers to switch to CIF terms — a move that may delay delivery to the buyer and increase residual liability for exporters. 3. Rights to change consignee or destination The revised Code also clarifies and strengthens a shipper’s rights to instruct a carrier to: change the consignee, or redirect cargo to an alternative port This is particularly relevant for users of negotiable Bills of Lading, and may also become significant for future users of negotiable multimodal transport documents, given China’s strong support for the UN Convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents. What members are encouraged to do Members involved in ocean freight movements to or from China are strongly encouraged to: Review governing law, jurisdiction and arbitration clauses in Bills of Lading and shipping contracts Reassess exposure to unclaimed or abandoned cargo, particularly where acting as “shipper” but not cargo owner Consider the interaction between Incoterms®, sales contracts and shipping arrangements Seek legal and insurance advice where China-linked shipments form a material part of operations An article outlining potential risks for freight forwarders has also been published by TT Club and may be of interest to members: https://www.ttclub.com/news-and-resources/news/article/tt-talk-what-freight-forwarders-should-watch-under-chinas-revised-maritime-code FTA / APSA will keep members informed of further developments.     Tom Jensen – General Manager Freight Policy & Operations – FTA / APSA Copyright © 2026 Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Pty Ltd, All rights reserved.

As previously advised, GPSM are reviewing trucking furl levies on a weekly basis in conjunction with our interstate partners.

Eventually we are seeing the terminal gate price for diesel fuel starting to reduce and from April 28th our fuel levies will be adjusted as follows:

• NSW 32%
• VIC 35%
• QLD 38%
• SA 38%
• WA 38%

The situation will again be reviewed on Monday 4th May 2026.