Suez Canal Returns Progress Amid Rising Fuel Costs
Container carriers are restoring selected Suez Canal sailings despite renewed tensions around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising hopes of shorter transit times between Asia and Europe.
Gemini Cooperation partners Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced that four additional services — AE5, AE11, AE12 and ME2 — will return to Suez routing. These connect Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, with Europe.
Avoiding the Cape of Good Hope diversion could shorten affected Asia–Europe journeys by approximately 10–14 days, depending on the service. Two of the returning services also include direct London Gateway calls, offering potential benefits for UK importers and exporters.
OOCL Portugal passed through the canal on 16 September, sailing eastbound from Belgium towards China. This marked OOCL’s first returning vessel since the Red Sea crisis triggered widespread diversions, although a broader service return remains unconfirmed.
MSC has also announced selected Suez sailings, including eastbound departures on its Albatros Asia–North Europe service. Further returns involving CMA CGM and COSCO have been reported, but detailed confirmation remains limited.
Houthi advances along Yemen’s western coastline continue to create uncertainty near Bab el-Mandeb. Carriers could change routing decisions if security conditions deteriorate.
Meanwhile, disruption to Middle Eastern oil production and transport routes, compounded by Houthi activity, has contributed to sharply higher oil prices. Brent crude has recently been trading above $100 per barrel. These pressures will likely lead to new or increased fuel surcharges across ocean, air and road freight in the coming days or weeks.
Killick Martin will continue monitoring developments and keep customers informed of significant changes affecting shipping routes, transit times and transport costs. Please contact our team to discuss any specific requirements.
