Despite the Houthi movement in Yemen announcing plans to halt attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, container line AP Moller-Maersk will continue to divert its vessels away from the region and the Suez Canal.
In light of Israel and Hamas recently agreeing to a ceasefire deal, A.P. Moller – Maersk would like to bring you an update on the re-routing of our networks via the Cape of Good Hope as an alternative to transiting the Red Sea / Gulf of Aden.
The ceasefire agreement
The ceasefire agreement brings much-needed humanitarian relief and hope for peace to be restored, and the announcement from the Houthi Movement on their plans to cease attacks in the area with peace talks ongoing, is a very welcome step in the right direction towards stability and eventual normality for the global shipping industry.
Continued tensions in the region
The process to bring the current conflict between Israel and Hamas to an end is dependent on a multi-phased roadmap continuing to be met, and as such the predictability of the situation remains a complex challenge. Furthermore, due to the continued tensions in the region, the security risk of commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb strait remains high.
With this in mind – and the safety of our crew, vessels, and your cargo being our utmost priority – Maersk will continue to sail around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope until safe passage through the area is ensured for the longer term.
This decision to optimize stability
We have taken this decision to optimize stability and certainty across your supply chain,” Maersk explained. “Returning to the area without fully ensuring safe passage could result in our networks needing to be adjusted again, which would prove complicated both operationally and indeed for supply chain management.” This decision by Maersk underscores the continued security concerns and the need for a stable and predictable environment for shipping operations in the region
Gemini Cooperation will be phasing in via the Cape of Good Hope
Regarding the Gemini Cooperation and our East West network (also referred to as the Network of the Future), this will be phasing in via the Cape of Good Hope as planned on 01 February 2025 and we encourage you to continue planning your supply chain around this set-up.
Return to the Red Sea
We will keep you informed of any new developments as soon as possible. When it is deemed safe to return to the Red Sea, we will strive to provide sufficient notice of network alterations so you can plan your operations accordingly.
Source : Press- release
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