UK customers could soon benefit from shorter shipping journeys as more carriers take steps to restore services through the Suez Canal, despite renewed tensions in the Red Sea region.

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced that four additional Gemini Cooperation services — AE5, AE11, AE12 and ME2 — will return to Suez routing. The services connect Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, with Europe.

By avoiding the lengthy diversion around the Cape of Good Hope, affected Asia–Europe sailings could save approximately 10–14 days, depending on the service. Two of the returning services include direct calls at London Gateway, providing a particularly relevant development for businesses trading through the UK.

OOCL has also taken a significant step, with OOCL Portugal passing through the canal on 16 September during its eastbound voyage from Belgium to China. The transit marked the carrier’s first return since the security crisis prompted widespread diversions, although a wider service reinstatement remains unconfirmed.

MSC has announced selected Suez sailings across several routes, including eastbound departures on its Albatros Asia–North Europe service and sailings on Mediterranean services. Reports also indicate activity involving CMA CGM and COSCO, but detailed confirmation of their service plans remains limited.

Security continues to influence these decisions. Houthi forces have advanced along Yemen’s western coastline, strengthening their presence near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial passage for shipping accessing Suez from the Indian Ocean.

Further returns will depend on regional conditions, and individual voyages could be diverted if risks escalate.

Global Logistics Freight Solutions is monitoring carrier updates and their implications for customers. Please contact our team for advice on current routing options, sailing schedules and expected transit times.