The disruption caused to the automotive supply chain by the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a misalignment of supply and capacity that is affecting the industry globally and is likely to last for the rest of this year for some sectors, such as in semiconductor supply.

Available capacity in ocean freight is currently very tight in certain regions. The surge in cargo movements that followed the first wave of the coronavirus lockdowns in China has met with restricted capacity in the distribution network. That has been caused by a displacement of containers and tighter capacity at inland warehouses and distribution centres. Added to that are ongoing restrictions on international travel caused by the pandemic, which have reduced aircraft hold capacity.