Christmas supplies heading to Britain could be delayed over the coming weeks in a threat to the festival season as the Panama Canal suffers its worst-ever drought.
Unprecedented conditions have seen water levels in the vital 50-mile shipping route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans fall to their lowest since the mid-1900s.
Dozens of massive container ships carrying presents and festive items including Apple’s new iPhones, TVs, exercise bikes, clothes and tree lights are experiencing delays of up to four weeks – and the crisis could yet last for several months.
Congestion in the canal could have a wider impact across the global supply chain – with experts warning that Christmas in the UK and Europe could be impacted.
The cost of food and energy prices could also rise because grains and fuels are among other major supplies transported through the canal now experiencing delays.
Experts have warned that the disruptions at the canal are likely to remain in place for ‘some time to come’, with some fearing the restrictions could continue into 2025.
Source : Daily Mail