Chinese shipping and logistics giant COSCO Shipping has suspended all new bookings for container shipping routes to and from the Middle East amid escalating conflict in the region, citing heightened security risks and restrictions on maritime traffic through key waterways like the Strait of Hormuz. The suspension extends to major Middle East markets including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf ports, and will remain in effect until the security situation stabilises.
This move by COSCO comes as several other global carriers have taken precautionary measures, including diverting vessels away from the Persian Gulf and rerouting through longer passages such as around the Cape of Good Hope, in response to rising military hostilities. Shipping firms have also imposed war risk surcharges, reflecting increased insurance and operational costs for traversing high-risk maritime corridors.
The broader disruption is part of a growing logistical challenge tied to the Middle East conflict, with supply chains under pressure, cargo delays mounting and shippers adjusting strategies to cope with uncertainty in one of the world’s most critical trade hubs.
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