Shipping companies avoid the Red Sea area

The situation in the Red Sea region has recently deteriorated due to continued rebel attacks on commercial container ships. In response, the world's largest container shipping lines have decided to temporarily suspend transit through the Red Sea. This means a disruption in the global supply chain. 

The Red Sea serves as a crucial transit route for maritime transport and is the only access route to the Suez Canal, making it an essential link between Europe and Asia. As the world's largest container shipping lines currently stop sailing the Red Sea, the impact on global trade could be significant. About 12 percent of all world trade passes through the Suez Canal.

The reason for avoiding this shipping route is recent attacks by rebels on commercial ships in the Red Sea area. The situation in the area is deteriorating and security concerns are increasing. As a result, most shipping companies are currently allowing their ships to wait in safer waters to further assess the situation. Other shipping companies have already announced that they will sail around Africa and will no longer sail through the Red Sea for the time being.

Recent developments in the Red Sea region are expected to have significant consequences for the economy and container transport. The situation is now forcing ships to consider alternative routes. Such as sailing around the African continent via the Cape of Good Hope. This may result in a delay of approximately 10 days.

The disruption of shipping routes and the resulting delays also affect the arrival and departure of sea containers in the port of Rotterdam. Significant delays are expected in the global supply chain, causing additional costs for logistics companies and traders. These costs can ultimately be passed on to consumers, with economic consequences for everyone.

We advise you to monitor the situation closely, especially regarding possible delays in the delivery of your import or export containers. Keep in touch with shipping companies and your logistics partners to stay informed of any changes. This allows you to respond in a timely manner and limit potential disruptions in your supply chain.