Impact of the increase in international freight costs for Colombian importers between 2019 and 2021

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to determine the impact of the increase in international freight costs for Colombian importers between 2019 and 2021. In order to answer this question, the research carried out was based on a qualitative descriptive study, based on a documentary review analysis; This process began through the conceptualization of the most relevant terms used in international maritime transport, then it was inquired about the factors that influenced the increase in international freight costs, there it was shown that the shortage of TEUs and the lack of operators to meet the demand in ports, are the main factors that triggered the increase in this item, it should be noted that the second factor was exacerbated as a result of the pandemic. From the results obtained, it is concluded that the impact generated by this cost overrun is negative for importers, the result was a decrease in the volume of imports arriving by sea, this being the means of transport responsible for mobilizing about 90% of the cargo traded worldwide, this negative variation directly influences the economy of each country and is reflected in its balance of trade. It is possible to identify the monopolistic role played by shipping companies, being the owners of containers and vessels, who use the contingency to take an advantageous position and oversell the reserves or exponentially increase the price of these.