Date: Monday, May 17, 2010

Re:	Update on South African port strikes Winter Delays on cross-Andes pass for Argentina orders routed via Chile

May 17 - Update on strike action in South Africa:

The SATAWU and UTATU unions are continuing the strike action that started on Monday, May 10th. There are minimal container and vessel operations at the main terminals of Cape Town and Durban. Transnet, the state port and freight rail operator, reported on Friday that based on current conditions the strike may continue for as long as 2 weeks. We will continue to provide updates on the situation as new information becomes available.

Cross-Andes pass: Winter delays for Argentina orders routed via Chile

The international tunnel connecting Mendoza to Chile was closed this past weekend due to snow and has re-opened today. Be advised that winter weather conditions typically start in May and can last through the end of September so we recommend importers plan on delays during this period or consider alternative routing via Buenos Aires. As of June 1st, transport will be limited to 9AM-9PM daily and we will inform you when the pass is closed for an extended amount of time.