News / Swire launches transpacific service avoiding congested Panama Canal

Swire Projects, the heavylift subsidiary of Swire Shipping, has launched a dedicated transpacific semi-liner service that avoids the Panama Canal, after shippers have faced long delays and surcharges in the region.  

Low water levels in the canal, caused by a lack of rain, meant the Panama Canal Authority (PCA) implemented restrictions on shipping in October that may continue through to February. This prompted shipping lines to introduce surcharges on cargo transiting the waterway.

Now, shippers are looking for alternative routes to ...