South East Asia transit times
| Country | Main ports | Via Suez Canal | Via Cape of Good Hope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore | Singapore | 22–28 days | 34–40 days |
| Malaysia | Port Klang, Tanjung Pelepas, Penang | 23–30 days | 35–42 days |
| Vietnam | Cai Mep, Ho Chi Minh City, Haiphong | 25–38 days | 37–50 days |
| Thailand | Laem Chabang, Bangkok | 26–34 days | 38–46 days |
| Indonesia | Jakarta (Tanjung Priok), Surabaya, Semarang | 28–38 days | 40–50 days |
| Philippines | Manila, Cebu | 30–40 days | 42–52 days |
Indicative ranges. Many sailings tranship at Singapore or Tanjung Pelepas, which adds time. Check the routing you're quoted.
Trade agreements and preferences
South East Asia has some of the best duty-saving opportunities for UK importers, if the paperwork is right:
- Vietnam: the UK–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, plus CPTPP
- Singapore: the UK–Singapore Free Trade Agreement, plus CPTPP
- Malaysia: CPTPP
- Indonesia and the Philippines: may qualify for reduced rates under the UK's Developing Countries Trading Scheme
- Thailand: no UK trade agreement, so standard rates usually apply
In every case the goods must meet the rules of origin, and you need valid proof of origin when you claim the lower rate. Goods only transhipped or repacked in the region usually don't qualify.
What moves on this trade
Furniture, clothing and footwear from Vietnam and Indonesia, electronics and components from Malaysia and Thailand, rubber and palm-based products, ceramics, seafood and coffee. UK exports to the region include machinery, food and drink, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
Holidays and seasons
Tết in Vietnam and Lunar New Year across the region close factories in January or February. Ramadan and Eid affect production in Malaysia and Indonesia, and the monsoon season can slow trucking and port operations in parts of the region. Build these into your ordering plan.