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HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
REPORT ON SHIPPING AND INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY, 28.4.39.
TON
SHIPPING.
The local market continues firm. The following fixtures
were reported: steamer for one trip, Bangkok/Swatow/Hong Kong; three
steamers for China coast trading.
Regarding the coastal trades, the market from Northern
ports has weakened, particularly in cargo to Swatow owing to Shippers
receiving instructions to cease shipments for the present, presumably
due to threatened Japanese activity in that Area. The demand from
Shanghai to the South is fair but that to the North is quieter on
account of the disparity in exchange. Moderate support from Hong
Kong. The political situation and recent "bombing" at Swatow has
caused considerable uncertainty at that port; steamers have been
securing fair cargoes. The same position applies at Foochow, where
it is expected shipments may cease unless present "tension" eases. Wenchow was declared a "closed port" on 24th April by the Chinese
authorities. Good cargoes continue from Pakhoi. The Japanese still
prohibit foreign steamers entering, or, having any communication with
Hoihow.
Canton also remains "closed"; whatever offers to or
from that port is handled entirely by Japanese.
SHIPBUILDING & REPAIRING.
(Please refer to following particulars supplied by the
two leading Dockyards):
/NEW
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