Current tensions hit logistics routes India and Pakistan

9 July 2025

Update 09/07/2025: Ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan continue to be felt by international freight traffic. Shipping traffic also continues to suffer from disruptions; shipping companies are avoiding the Pakistani port city of Karachi, among others, and are choosing alternative routes more often.

Air traffic is also affected. Pakistani airspace remains closed to Indian carriers, forcing them to detour and experiencing longer transit times toward Europe. In addition, trade restrictions are still in place on both sides, leading to additional customs checks and delays in handling goods.

We are closely monitoring developments and will keep you informed via our website of changes that may affect your shipments.

The political tensions between Pakistan and India are also evident in the logistics chain. Both the Pakistani and Indian governments have closed key border crossings and temporarily halted trade between the two countries. Additionally, the Indian government has decided that ships carrying goods from Pakistan will no longer be allowed to dock at Indian ports.

For the vast majority of ships from Pakistan, India is an important stopover on shipping routes to Europe and the US. We are already experiencing delays, changes in shipping routes, and premature unloading of containers. These disruptions will lead to problems such as longer delivery times and increased prices.

We, along with our Pakistani partner, are currently in close contact with the shipping companies, and alternative solutions are actively sought. Shipping companies are awaiting instructions from their headquarters, which are currently considering possible adjustments to their sailing schedules.

One shipping company has already announced an Emergency Operational Recovery Surcharge, effective May 15, 2025. While the exact impact per shipment is not clear yet, we expect several other shipping lines to follow suit soon.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and notify you immediately of any developments that may affect your shipments. We kindly ask for your understanding in this particular situation. Should you have any questions as a result of this communication, please feel free to contact your regular contact person at Ritra Cargo.