As 2025 draws to a close, the global logistics sector continues to face pressure from multiple directions — storms, tariffs, and fluctuating fuel prices — driving unpredictable shifts in shipping costs and delivery schedules for agrochemical importers in Vietnam.
1. Storms and extreme weather disruptions
• Southeast Asia is currently experiencing a strong typhoon season. Recent storms such as Ragasa, Bualoi, and Matmo have caused severe marine disruptions, significantly affecting China, Vietnam, and neighboring countries — especially on the main sea route between China and Vietnam.
• Several ports in Northern and Central Vietnam have issued high-level safety warnings, while Southern Chinese ports temporarily suspended operations, leading to delays and extended transit times.
• For crop protection products, importers should pay close attention to moisture and heat-resistant packaging to maintain product quality during transport.
2. Freight rates show slight increases
• Freight costs from China to Vietnam have edged up by USD 10–25 per container, depending on route and local charges.
• Meanwhile, the India–Vietnam route remains more stable, with 20ft containers priced between USD 350–650, although related expenses (customs clearance, inspection, chemical certification) remain high.
• To mitigate disruptions, many importers are now booking shipments 1–2 weeks earlier to avoid risks from last-minute blank sailings, which have been increasing again since early October.
3. U.S.–China tariffs: ripple effects on Vietnam’s supply chain
• The United States’ proposal to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese goods (currently postponed pending the APEC summit at the end of October) has sent shockwaves through global trade. While Vietnam is not directly affected, the regional supply chain is facing indirect consequences.
• Shipping costs from China to Vietnam have risen slightly due to reciprocal port fees and stricter inspection procedures. Some carriers, including SITC, have already adjusted schedules or introduced new surcharges for these routes.
• Chinese-origin goods transshipped or re-exported through Vietnam are now subject to stricter CO and component certification checks to prevent tariff circumvention.
• Agrochemical importers sourcing from China should stay updated on CO and MSDS regulations, ensuring transparent customs documentation to avoid delays or cargo holds.
• Conversely, India is emerging as a reliable alternative source, offering more stable logistics and lower exposure to U.S. tariff risks. Several Indian suppliers have increased exports to Vietnam, particularly for widely used actives such as Hexaconazole and Chlorpyrifos Methyl.
4. Crude oil prices ease, but volatility remains
• According to VTV, global crude oil prices have dropped to their lowest levels since May due to abundant supply and slowing demand.
• However, extreme weather events and geopolitical uncertainty could quickly reverse this trend, directly affecting Bunker Adjustment Factors (BAF) and total shipping costs.
5. Recommendations for agrochemical importers
• Book shipments early and monitor vessel schedules regularly.
• Diversify sourcing (China, India, ASEAN) to reduce disruption risks.
• Verify certificates of origin and chemical documents carefully to avoid customs issues.
• Strengthen domestic logistics — warehouse coordination, trucking flexibility, and contingency planning for weather disruptions.
In summary, while the logistics market remains under moderate pressure, it is still manageable.
With proactive planning and continuous market monitoring, businesses can control costs, maintain delivery timelines, and keep their supply chains stable through the year-end period.
