Hapag-Lloyd enforces import booking restriction amid Haiti unrest

In the wake of escalating street violence and civil unrest in Haiti, German liner major Hapag-Lloyd announced a booking restriction for cargo destined for Port-au-Prince for importers.

Over the past weeks, Haiti has been gripped by widespread protests and turmoil, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and various provinces across the country. The unrest has taken a toll on all facets of the nation’s economy, causing ports and terminal facilities to exceed their capacity. As a consequence, the Customs Clearance processes have been temporarily suspended, exacerbating the logistical challenges faced by importers.

In response to the volatile situation, Hapag-Lloyd has imposed a booking restriction for all imports bound for Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The restriction is set to be in effect until further notice. The company added it will closely monitor the evolving situation and will provide updates through their official communication channels.

Based on the recent reports from CNN, intruders breached a major port terminal in Haiti on Thursday, escalating an already dire situation as the government extended its state of emergency. The Haitian government has declared the extension of the state of emergency until April 3 in the West Region and the capital, Port-au-Prince. Additionally, a curfew has been prolonged until March 10.

According to the United Nations, at least 15,000 people in Port-au-Prince, where gangs reportedly control about 80 percent of the territory, have been forced to flee their homes due to the escalating violence.

The unrest has been ascribed to political instability and power vacuum, exacerbated by the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021.