International Shipping Trends - February 9, 2026 - Storm Disrupts Iron Ore Shipping

February 9, 2026, 5:36 PM

TDD-Global

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Highlights at a glance

Major disruptions and policy shifts are impacting global shipping. Key Australian iron ore ports, including Port Hedland, have suspended operations due to tropical storms, halting over 2 million tons of daily exports and delaying Capesize vessels. Simultaneously, Evergreen Line is implementing stricter booking controls for chemicals and special cargo, requiring pre-approval and mandatory documentation. In a separate development, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) will adjust Freight All Kinds (FAK) base rates for shipments from the Far East to Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean, effective March 1, 2026. This briefing covers the immediate logistical challenges and upcoming regulatory changes affecting maritime freight.

Storm Disrupts Iron Ore Shipping

Tropical storms forced key Pilbara iron oreports, including Port Hedland, to shutoperations. Over 2 million tons of dailyexports were disrupted, delaying Capesizevesselschedules.

Evergreen Tightens Booking Rules

Evergreen announced stricter bookingrules for chemicals and special cargo.Shipowner approval is required beforebooking, with MsDS, cargo certificates andphotos mandatory.

MSC Revises Africa, Indian Ocean Rates

MSC will adjust FAK base rates forshipments from Far East ports toSub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Oceanfrom March 1, 2026, with charges appliedport-to-port plus surcharges.