How Maersk’s Israel Port Suspension Triggers 55% Surge in Middle East Shipping Rates

Publish Time: 2025-06-24 Origin: Site

Shipping Giants Halt Israel Calls as Middle East Rates Explode

June 24, 2025 – Maersk has become the first major carrier to suspend all vessel calls at Israel’s Haifa port due to escalating missile strikes from Iran, triggering a 55% surge in Middle East freight rates and raising fears of broader regional supply chain chaos.

1. Carrier Actions: Port Suspensions & Contingency Plans

Maersk: Immediate halt to Haifa port calls and cargo bookings, citing crew safety risks. Alternatives offered via Ashdod port.
Hapag-Lloyd: Reduced Haifa services, suspending its EM3 route while maintaining AL7 calls.
CMA CGM: Quietly rerouting ships away from Persian Gulf ports (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi) and disabling AIS tracking.

2. Why Haifa Matters

Handles 90% of Israel’s trade volume, critical for tech, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
Privately owned by India’s Adani Ports (70%)—global investors now exposed to war risks.

3. Rate Surge & Cost Drivers

Price Shocks:

Shanghai → Jebel Ali: $2,761/FEU (+55%)
Persian Gulf SCFI: $2,122/TEU (+1.9%)
VLCC Rates: $7.6M/day (+12%) for oil tankers

⚡ Hidden Costs:

War Risk Insurance: Up 3x for Israel-bound ships (0.7% of vessel value).
Fuel Surcharges: High-speed transits through risk zones spike bunker costs.

4. What’s Next?

More Withdrawals: Analysts expect Hapag-Lloyd, MSC to follow Maersk’s lead.
Extended Disruptions: If Iran blocks Hormuz Strait (chokepoint for 30% of global oil), rates could double again.
Shipper Strategies:

Reroute: Use Mediterranean hubs like Turkey’s Ambarli Port.
Lock Rates: Secure contracts before broader carrier withdrawals.

Why This Matters:

Crew Safety vs. Commerce: Maersk’s move prioritizes human lives over profits—a precedent for ESG-conscious logistics.
Global Ripple Effects: Electronics, automotive sectors face delays; oil prices threaten $130/barrel.

"This isn’t just about Haifa—it’s a stress test for global trade resilience," warns Xeneta’s Peter Sand.

Actionable Insight: Check if your cargo uses Haifa/Ashdod and demand war risk clauses in new contract.

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