Golden Week China

What is Golden Week?

Golden Week is China’s national holiday week to celebrate the originate of the People’s Republic of China. This week takes place annually from 1 October to 7 October. Festivities such as military parades, official flag ceremonies, major sporting-, dance- and firework events take place all over China. For many Chinese it is a tradition to use this week to travel around the country, for family visits for example. 

All this traveling has a major impact on the country’s infrastructure. Most Chinese government institutions and factories are therefore closed during this week.

What to expect from Golden Week?

During this week one of the most important trading economies worldwide comes (almost) at a complete standstill. Important (air)ports and terminals will mainly kept running with a minimal skeleton crew. It is to be expected that factories and (air)ports will not immediately run at full capacity after October 7th.  Given the current market situation in Asia (Covid-19, capacity problems and equipment shortages), the Golden Week of 2021 will most likely have a greater impact on your supply chain than previous years. 

When is DSV China closed?

DSV in China will close its offices during this week. It is our goal to limit the impact of Golden week as much as possible. With Sunday 26 September and Saturday 9 October, DSV China has already scheduled two additional working days. In addition, DSV Macao will be closed on 1 and 2 October. DSV Hong Kong will only be closed on 1 October. 

What can you do to limit the impact of Golden Week 2021?

While we do everything we can to minimize the influence of Golden Week on our processes, you can do something yourself:

• Keep an open and clear communication with your suppliers and customers to avoid disappointments and possible delays;
• Try to place bookings earlier if possible:
  • For sea freight: 3-4 weeks before Golden Week;
  • For air freight: 1-2 weeks before Golden Week;
• If possible, indicate which shipment is most urgent for you;
• Create extra time into your planning on top of your regular planned supply chain.

For any questions please contact your regular contact persons within DSV Air & Sea.