Tianjin Port Explosion *Update*

28 August 2015

Local correspondents Huatai Insurance Agency & Consultant Services Ltd have kindly provided an update on the situation at the Port of Tianjin as of 27 August. Their advice can be read here.

18 August 2015

Local correspondents Huatai Insurance Agency & Consultant Services Ltd have kindly provided an update on the situation at the Port of Tianjin as of 18 August. Their advice can be read here.

17 August 2015

The linked document has been issued by the Tianjin Municipal Transportation Commission and concerns the suspension of dangerous cargo operations in the Port of Tianjin.

It is understood that the port of Tianjin is gradually resuming operations, but delays and congestion remain severe.

14 August 2015

The explosion at the Port of Tianjin, China on the evening of 12 August 2015, has caused significant disruption. North has received a number of status reports which as at 14 August 2015 include the following :

• Oil tankers, chemical tankers, LPG vessels and ships carrying “hazardous products” have been barred from calling at the port and all dangerous cargo operations has been suspended until further notice.
• BHP Billiton, the Australian iron ore miner reported that shipments of its iron ore cargoes have been disrupted.
• The Beigangchi area of the port, which was near to the explosion zone, has allowed ships to leave but not to enter.
•  Local agents report that there is congestion at the port and delays are being experienced.
• There is limited and congested road access to the port.
• Ro-ro berths have suspended operations.
• Only a few container berths are still in operation and there is major congestion.
• China Inspection and Quarantine Services (CIQ) and Customs are currently not working.
• Steel cargo exports have been affected.

Vessels scheduled to call at Tianjin should seek advice on the latest situation from their local agents.