Maersk, CMA CGM continue to avoid Red Sea amid security concerns

According to a press release, the Danish shipping giant Maersk has reaffirmed its decision to reroute vessels via the Cape of Good Hope instead of the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden due to ongoing regional tensions, despite the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The company acknowledged the ceasefire as a positive step toward stability but noted that security risks for commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait remain high. The company emphasized that crew, vessel, and cargo safety remain its top priority, adding that returning to the area without guaranteeing safe passage could disrupt operations and supply chains.

Maersk also confirmed that the Gemini Cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd and its East-West network will proceed with planned routing via the Cape of Good Hope starting February 1, 2025.

Additionally, French shipping and logistics company CMA CGM stated in a press release that it will continue prioritizing alternative routes, including the Cape of Good Hope, for most of its network due to ongoing regional tensions and security risks.