With the situation that is currently shaking the entire planet, the export of agri-food products will not escape shaking in the coming weeks, even months.
In order to inform you about the impacts that COVID-19 will have on exports, the Export Group remains on the lookout and participates in various meetings in order to obtain information as precise as possible. This memo is an inventory of what we hold as information at the moment. It will be updated as the information becomes available.
ON THE FIELD
Transport and Logistics
Our Transport and Logistics department remains on constant watch and is informed on a daily basis on current issues. We also participate in regular discussions with key players in the logistics sector to obtain an up-to-date picture of the situation. Here is what we know for the moment:
- Most mail carriers (small packages) have adopted the verbal signature.
- Transit times in air transport could increase significantly in the coming weeks. It would therefore be wise to plan these upfront in order to minimize the negative impacts.
- According to several freight forwarders, a price spike could also be expected, considering the reduced supply of passenger flights which transport a high percentage of cargo shipments.
- In Canada, some carriers are currently working with their customers to plan the resources that will be required for priority deliveries of essential goods. Contact your carriers to determine a game plan with them.
Trade Shows
Many Export Group members participate in trade shows around the world. To date, the following events have been impacted and participants have been informed individually.
Newly announced :
- Expo ANTAD & Alimentaria Mexico 2020 (March 30 to April 2, 2020)
Postponed from July 22 to 24, 2020
- CPMA Convention & Trade Show 2020
Cancelled
- SIAL China (May 13 to 15, 2020)
Postponed from September 28 to 30, 2020
List of impacted salons:
- Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim (March 3-7, 2020)
Cancelled
- Mission on the sidelines of Foodex Japan (March 9-13, 2020)
Cancelled
- Seafood Expo North America in Boston (March 15-17, 2020)
Postponed to a later date still to be determined
- SIAL Canada (April 15 to 17, 2020)
Postponed from August 5 to 7, 2020
- ECRM - Store Brand Food (April 19 to 23, 2020)
Postponed from June 14 to 18, 2020
- Seafood Expo Global in Brussels (April 21 to 23, 2020)
Postponed to a later date still to be determined
The Export Group continues to work with its partners to minimize the financial impacts that will result from the postponement or cancellation of these shows, both for the association and for its members. You will be informed as soon as possible.
