Super Typhoon Dolphin Threatens Further Disruption Across North Asia

Just weeks after Typhoon Bavi disrupted ports across China, another powerful storm is threatening to impact one of the world's busiest shipping regions.

Super Typhoon Dolphin is currently forecast to track towards Taiwan and eastern China, with the potential to affect port operations, vessel schedules and supply chains across the region.

The challenge is that the impacts of Bavi have not yet been fully absorbed. While congestion eased after the storm passed, vessel queues and schedule delays continue to work their way through the network. If Dolphin follows its current forecast, another round of port closures, vessel bunching and delays could occur before the existing backlog has completely cleared.

One weather event is manageable. Two significant systems affecting the same trade corridor within a matter of weeks is where supply chains can really start to feel the pressure. While the forecast will no doubt continue to evolve, it highlights just how quickly weather can influence vessel schedules across the North Asia trade lane.

Adding to the challenge, more than 66 million tonnes of bulk commodities are scheduled to be discharged across Chinese ports over the next two weeks, with iron ore, coal, bauxite, soybeans and nickel ore representing the largest volumes. Container shipping is also expected to remain exposed should port operations be disrupted.

Although the storm's track and intensity may still change, even short-term suspensions at major ports can have lasting effects as vessels queue at anchor, terminals work through backlogs and carriers adjust sailing schedules.

End to End Logistics will continue monitoring carrier announcements, vessel schedules, port operations and congestion levels across the region as the situation develops. For businesses with cargo moving through North Asia, understanding how these events unfold can help minimise disruption and support more informed supply chain planning.