Maersk and CMA CGM continue to take Cape of Good Hope route, away from Red Sea

Major shipping firms A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and CMA CGM recently issued notices on updates on their network routing regarding the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. 

Maersk said despite Israel and Hamas recently agreeing to a ceasefire deal, 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, stating “the safety of our crew, vessels, and your cargo being our utmost priority”.

“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,” it said.

“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.”

Maersk said it has taken this decision to optimise stability and certainty across its customers’ supply chains.

“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,” it added.

French shipping firm CMA CGM said the safety of its seafarers, vessels, and our customers’ cargo remains the CMA CGM Group’s utmost priority.

“Given the ongoing tensions and associated risks for commercial vessels in certain areas, CMA CGM will for time being continue to prioritise alternative routes, including a significant reliance on passage via the Cape of Good Hope,” it said.

“While this approach applies to the majority of our network, adjustments may be  made on a case-by-case basis depending on security and global operational conditions.”

Related: Gard on Red Sea update: Cautious optimism after Gaza truce?
Related: IBIA: Change in bunkering activity – Red Sea attacks on commercial shipping

Photo credit: A.P. Moller – Maersk
Published: 27 January, 2025