February 15, 2026, marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, a milestone that will represent a critical juncture for foreign trade in Asia. This holiday period, which officially extends until February 23, involves widespread factory closures and a drastic reduction in regional logistical capacity.
Key Dates for Your Calendar
While the official holiday period runs from February 15 to February 23, 2026, the supply chain disruption is not limited to these dates; its structural impact spans a much wider window:
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Pre-closure & Peak Season (January – Early February): The rush to export before the holiday saturates cargo capacity and drives up freight rates due to a sharp increase in demand.
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Standstill Phase (February 15 – 23): Massive factory shutdowns and inactivity in customs and inland transport bring the outflow of goods from Asia to a near-total halt.
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Post-Holiday Effect (March): A backlog of pending orders creates a “bottleneck effect” at ports and airports, prolonging transit times and limiting container availability.
To ensure operational continuity in 2026, it is vital to anticipate inventory needs for February and March, coordinate closing schedules closely with your suppliers, and book logistical space well in advance. This strategic planning will help mitigate rising rates and guarantee commercial compliance without interruptions despite the Asian market paralysis.
