Japan Earthquake: Update

16-03-2011

The devastation suffered by this country is immense, and the fallout will inevitably affect those beginning or engaged in international assignments in Japan. Tokyo, where the largest expat communities are based, is experiencing power outages, telecommunication issues and problems with email, making contacting friends and family members difficult. The Government has introduced 3 hour black-outs in Tokyo and the surrounding prefectures to conserve electricity; our partners there have also informed us that commuter trains have been affected by electric generation issues and that some areas have limited transportation. Those businesses that are open are operating with reduced capacity.

We are currently seeing major delays to both sea and air freight. Aid cargo is understandably being given priority over household goods shipments and man-power at operational Japanese ports and airports has also been diverted to the relief effort. As a result, many airlines have implemented embargoes as they try to move backlogged cargo. Therefore, anyone with air or sea cargo in transit to Japan should expect significant delays.

We are closely monitoring the situation as it develops and offering any support we can to those affected.

Our thoughts and sympathies are with the residents of Japan at this extremely difficult time.