How The Tianjin Explosion Affects U.S. Manufacturing, Shipping

The Aug. 12 explosion in the port city of Tianjin, China, has effected American manufacturing and shipping. The explosion, which so far has killed 56 and injured hundreds, according to the New York Times, has forced American companies, such as John Deere, to halt production, and has caused significant damage to shipping containers.

CNBC reported that on Thursday, Aug. 13, John Deere temporarily suspended production until authorities can assess the area. The company reported that employees who were home at the time of the explosion “have sustained serious injuries and some are in critical condition.”

Facilities within the Tianjin Economic Development area suffered damage, such as shattered windows, broken pipes and damage to ceilings.

Wal-Mart, which has a facility in Tianjin as well, reported that it has not had any issues so far, but officials are monitoring the situation.

Canadian Manufacturing reported that the explosion caused shipping containers to collide with one another, leaving many bent, and others completely charred. The Tianjin Maritime Safety Administration barred ships carrying oil or other hazardous products as of Thursday, and vessels are not allowed to enter the central port zone.

Tianjin is the world’s 10th largest port by container volume, and moves more containers than the port of Los Angeles. It is the largest port in northern China, as it is a gateway to Beijing. Large international companies, such as Coca-Cola, Samsung and Nestle, have operations in Tianjin.

Canadian Manufacturing reported that the explosion’s long-term effect on the port would hinge on cleanup time. The Tianjin government ceased firefighting efforts on Thursday so chemical experts could evaluate the area for hazardous materials.

Gizmodo published multiple photos of the damage.