Japanese container line ONE has suspended all cargo bookings in and out of major Russian and Ukrainian seaports due to the effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The shipping line, which made the announcement on Monday, follows Hapag-Lloyd, which suspended all its bookings to Russia on the first day of the invasion on February 24.
“Due to the recent developments in Ukraine and Russia, we regret to inform that our operations in the area are disrupted and our ability to complete the carriage of consignments to some destinations is, or is likely to become, obstructed,” ONE said in an advisory note to shippers.
ONE advised that booking acceptance to and from Odessa, Ukraine, and Novorossiysk, Russia would be suspended with immediate effect until further notice.
“Booking acceptance to and from St. Petersburg, Russia, is suspended with immediate effect until further notice whilst we evaluate the operational feasibility,” ONE said.
“ONE is working tirelessly to find solutions for those consignments currently on the water. ONE will continue to provide updates on any further adjustments to our services to and from the impacted locations as the situation develops,” the shipping line said.
“The ongoing safety and wellbeing of ONE’s employees and associates in the region are of great importance and concern. Currently ONE’s representatives in the region are safe and
continue to work remotely.”
Yesterday, Maersk also announced that it was considering taking a similar decision.
"We at A.P. Moller-Maersk are closely monitoring and preparing to comply with the ever-evolving sanctions and restrictions imposed against Russia while we safeguard our operations and our people in consideration of the constantly developing situation," Maersk said in a statement published by Maritime Executive.
"Our preparations include a possible suspension of Maersk bookings to and from Russia on the ocean and inland." Maersk said it was aiming to ensure delivery of cargo that was already on the water, especially cold chain operations for food and pharmaceuticals.
* Since posting this report, The Danish container line has indeed decided to stop calling at Russian ports.
