China Can't Control Latest COVID-19 Outbreak, and It Could Now Constrict Containers at World's Busiest Port

The commodity markets came under pressure to start the week as traders tried to shed risk over shipping concerns in China. The bearish sentiment was driven by fresh COVID-19 concerns in China that caused officials to shut down transportation amid a two-pronged lockdown. 

Government officials in Shanghai announced rolling lockdowns in order to conduct coronavirus testing. In the city of 26 million people, residents will be barred from leaving their homes. There's concern any suspension of commercial activity in Shanghai will have global ripple effects.

The city is one of China's primary centers for finance, manufacturing and trade. Shanghai has been the world's busiest port when it comes to container volumes since 2010.
 
Even though Chinese state media says the port continues to operate, other reports say that trucking services in and out of the city will be severely impacted...and several warehouses are closed.
 
All this is coming as officials work to contain an outbreak of a highly transmissible Omincron variant. The restrictions are in place until Tuesday, April 3, 2022.

 

Latest News

APHIS Now Thinks Wild Birds Are to Blame for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza's Arrival on Four U.S. Dairies
APHIS Now Thinks Wild Birds Are to Blame for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza's Arrival on Four U.S. Dairies

The livestock industry continues to grapple with the first confirmed cases of HPAI in cattle, while federal and state agencies continue to assure consumers there's no concern about the safety of the U.S. milk supply.

Skills Survey Reveals U.S. Agriculture & Food Industry Workforce Needs and Gaps
Skills Survey Reveals U.S. Agriculture & Food Industry Workforce Needs and Gaps

U.S. employers report challenges in finding suitable job candidates with work-ready skills to fill open roles in ag. The AgCareers.com U.S. Skills Survey offers insights, data and trends to address skill development.

USDA Authorizes CRP Graze and Hay Donations to Wildfire Victims
USDA Authorizes CRP Graze and Hay Donations to Wildfire Victims

Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) participants can donate emergency grazing authority to ranchers in Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas impacted by recent wildfires.

New Guide Helps Producers Maximize Values of Cull Cows
New Guide Helps Producers Maximize Values of Cull Cows

A new resource developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CattleFax helps cattle producers maximize profitability from their culling decisions.

How Ranchers can Feel More Energized and Reduce their Aches and Pains
How Ranchers can Feel More Energized and Reduce their Aches and Pains

We can’t care for our livestock, resources and families without caring for ourselves first. That seems even harder during the busy seasons, but it isn’t impossible and even one thing a day makes a difference.

Profit Tracker: Packer/Feeder Margin Spread Grows
Profit Tracker: Packer/Feeder Margin Spread Grows

Last week’s rally to new record prices pushed packer and feeder margins in opposite directions. Pork producer margins continue higher with prices now above year ago.