Late last year, a number of shipping companies considered resuming the route through the Red Sea, but these plans were halted by new attacks on container vessels. For the trade between Asia and Europe, the continuation of the routing via the Cape of Good Hope is to be expected. To and from Red Sea ports, most shipping companies have established alternative services through the Suez Canal to at least serve those Red Sea ports that are not in the critical area.
The current situation in the Red Sea is already having a severe impact on all global shipping routes, causing longer transit times, route changes, massive rate increases and emergency surcharges. As a result of this extraordinary situation, shipping companies can not maintain previous rate agreements and space commitments. If this critical situation continues, equipment shortages and capacity issues are to be expected.
Status December 21, 2023 8 AM (CET)
Following attacks by Houthi rebels on several merchant vessels in the Red Sea, the situation continues to deteriorate. Due to the security situation, most shipping companies have decided to completely suspend the route through the Red Sea.
The alternative route around the Cape of Good Hope will result in significant delays, increased freight costs and surcharges. As this is an event of force majeure beyond the control of Gebrüder Weiss, we would like to point out that any resulting additional costs must be borne by the freight payer.
In addition to the above, there are capacity constraints to/from Asia. We therefore advise you to make your bookings as early as possible. Furthermore, it is expected that the increased transportation volume before the upcoming Chinese New Year (February 2024) will further aggravate the situation.
Status December 18, 2023 5 PM (CET)
Following attacks by Houthi rebels on several merchant ships in the Red Sea, an increasing number of shipping companies are avoiding the route through the Suez Canal. The alternative route around the Cape of Good Hope will lead to delays of at least 10 days. Cargo already aboard vessels will also be delayed from originally planned delivery dates.
We are in close contact with the shipping companies and will keep you informed of all further developments.
For further information on your current transports, please contact your local Gebrüder Weiss Air & Sea office directly.
