Stay updated with ICE’s latest Freight & Trade Briefing — covering the critical shifts in Australian and global logistics as we move through June 2026.

AUSTRALIA

Peak Season Starts Early: 

​China- Australia capacity pressure continues as global container markets are entering peak season earlier than usual, with rising demand placing pressure on vessel capacity, equipment availability and freight rates across key trade lanes.

For Australia-bound cargo, ongoing congestion and carrier overbooking across China–Australia services are contributing to booking rollovers and reduced schedule reliability. With capacity expected to remain tight in the coming months, businesses are encouraged to plan shipments early and maintain flexibility around sailing schedules and routing options where possible. Call our team to discuss your upcoming shipments, minimise delays and secure capacity.

Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement Advances to Ratification Stage:

Australia and the European Union have formally concluded negotiations on the Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement, with the agreement now progressing through legal review and ratification processes before it enters into force. Once implemented, the agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on approximately 98% of Australian exports to the EU and more than 99% of EU exports to Australia, creating new opportunities across agriculture, manufacturing, industrial goods and critical minerals. Businesses trading between Australia and Europe may benefit from lower landed costs, improved market access and greater sourcing flexibility. Explore our Germany and Italy pages to see how we help customers navigate these important markets with confidence

New Biosecurity Charges Commence from 1 July:

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has increased most biosecurity and imported food regulatory charges by 3.8% for the 2026–27 financial year. Additional changes include revised quarantine-related fees and new charges for selected import activities. These updates may impact import costs, compliance requirements and clearance planning for some businesses. Read the full report here

GLOBE

Strait of Hormuz Remains a Key Supply Chain Risk:

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, the Strait of Hormuz remains a significant source of uncertainty for global supply chains. Recent security incidents involving commercial vessels have reinforced concerns around service reliability, transit times and the security of one of the world’s most important shipping corridors. Read more here 

Industry attention is also focused on proposals for potential transit fees and increased security-related costs for vessels transiting the region. While no formal measures have been implemented, ongoing uncertainty may contribute to higher operating costs, insurance premium increases and ongoing supply chain volatility. Businesses with exposure to Gulf markets should continue to monitor developments closely and allow flexibility within their logistics planning.

DAFF Alert: Indian Fumigation Provider Changes – Recent Changes: 

Over the last few weeks, DAFF has suspended or withdrawn 13 Indian offshore treatment providers accredited under AFAS following compliance concerns. The changes may impact in-transit consignments subject to khapra beetle treatment requirements, including certain plant products and sea containers. Affected shipments may require onshore treatment, inspection, or additional DAFF-approved treatment arrangements before release. Importers and supply chain stakeholders should review affected consignments carefully or speak with your ICE expert for assistance with Freight Forwarder From India To Australia | Air & Sea Freight

Suspended Providers:

M/s Kirpal Pest Control (IN0455MB)
M/s G. D. Fumigation (IN0633MB)
M/s DPCS Pest Control (IN0203MB)
M/s Pest Control Agency (IN0401MB)
M/s Benison Fumigation Services (IN0455MB)
M/s Aryan Fumigation & Pest Management Services (IN0584MB)
M/s Deva Singh Sham Singh Exports (IN0830MB)

Withdrawn Providers:

M/s CaribEx Agri Care Services Pvt. Ltd (IN0487MB)
M/s Ved Perkash Goel & Company (IN0535MB)
M/s Aarav Pest Management (IN0567MB)
M/s Shiv Shakti Pest Control & Fumigation Services (IN0692MB)
M/s RJT Pest Control (IN0766MB)
M/s New Ocean Fumigation Services (IN0809MB)