In early January, news came from China of a new coronavirus outbreak. A wet market in Wuhan is believed to have been the origin and as it stands, more than 40,000 people are infected, more than 1000 have died and global economic markets are starting to feel its effect.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is part of a large family of coronaviruses found in animals and humans. Infections from these viruses can range from a common cold to severe diseases like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
As at 10 February, 40,554 people are infected globally, up 16,254 people from 24,554 on 5 February. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), in China on 10 February, 40,235 people are infected, 6484 are classified as severe cases and on 11 February the number of people killed by the virus surpassed 1000. There are 319 cases outside of China in 24 countries with one death recorded.
Wuhan is in lock down and the majority of border crossings into Hong Kong are now closed, WHO said. China has responded in several ways, restricting travel inside China, discouraging large gatherings, including for food service and out-of-home dining, and extending the national holiday.
Australian Industry Group (AiGroup) GM, International Competitiveness Louise McGrath told Food & Drink Business that impacts on different industries will be a delayed shock because of the timing of the outbreak.
Everyone expects a period of quietness at this time of year due to Chinese New Year. If it had happened at any other time of year the impact would be much more noticeable, she said.
One of the industries most dramatically affected is live animal export, particularly seafood. The Seafood Trade Advisory Group (STAG) said the last seafood airfreight cargo accepted to China was 26 January, with no landings since from Australia, New Zealand and the rest of the world.
STAG said: There is widespread dysfunction within China at the moment, with road closures and inability to process paperwork/export documentation etc. due to an increasing number of workers staying home.
Freight in and out of ports and road transport are heavily affected, with ongoing delays expected. A high level of administrative dysfunction will have significant effects on all trade partners.
The national body representing the seafood sector, Seafood Industry Australia (SIA) said it was a rapidly evolving situation with the loss of orders impacting many in the industry, from fishers, to exporters and freight companies. On 24 January it raised its concerns with the Federal Government but it remained unclear where trade would return to normal.