News / Australian shippers enjoy rate drop, but decry 'broken' biosecurity rules

© Vitalij Sova

The long-term freight rate outlook has turned “positive” for Australia’s agricultural sector, but biosecurity delays caused by a “hopelessly outdated” system are adding to short-term supply chain costs.

According to a new report by agribusiness specialist Rabobank, while container shipping costs will continue to decline over the next year, they are unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels due to “broader structural factors”.

For example, it said “geographical uncertainties” were creating risks for container shipping, and that there are “growing operational costs for ...