HCMC – The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) has asked authorities to support seafood exporters as shipping lines have raised refrigerated container surcharges by US$2,000–US$4,000 amid shipping disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.
In a document sent to the Agency of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the association pointed out the impact of the conflict on seafood exports.
The tensions have begun to affect global logistics systems, particularly maritime transport. Some shipping routes to the U.S. East Coast and Europe have been rerouted around Africa, extending transit times by seven to ten days, according to VASEP.
Some shipping lines have canceled voyages or temporarily suspended services on routes connected to the Middle East or passing through high-risk areas.
Shipments to Israel have also been affected. Some cargo is being diverted to ports in Egypt before continuing by road to Israel.
Insurance constraints have added to the disruption. Some international insurers, particularly those based in the United Kingdom, have limited or declined coverage for vessels traveling through conflict zones, prompting shipping lines to avoid direct routes.
Most exporters reported that deliveries are still taking place. However, transit times have increased and sailing schedules have become less predictable.
Several shipping lines have imposed additional surcharges of US$2,000–US$4,000 per refrigerated container, while other fees linked to risk or fuel have also been introduced.
Domestic trucking costs have also increased. Some transport firms have raised fees by about VND500,000 for a 40-foot container as diesel prices have climbed.
Exporters focused on markets such as the United States, Japan, Northern Europe, and Western Europe have not faced major direct disruptions beyond higher freight costs.
Companies shipping to the Middle East or Southern Europe have encountered greater difficulties. Some exporters have temporarily suspended shipments to the Middle East due to transport risks and limited vessel availability, according to VASEP.
The association called for policy measures to support exporters if logistics and fuel costs continue to rise, especially if the conflict lasts one, three or six months, or even longer.
It also recommended strengthening coordination with shipping lines and international logistics partners to maintain stable transport routes for exports, and considering support policies to ease production and logistics costs as fuel prices increase.
