CMA CGM keeps ships off Suez as rivals return to the canal

In a customer advisory dated 20 January 2026, CMA CGM said it had decided “for the time being” to reroute vessels deployed on its FAL 1, FAL 3 and MEX services via southern Africa. According to the company, the decision follows a close assessment of the “complex and uncertain international context”, with the situation to be reviewed regularly.

The announcement comes after expectations that some carriers might gradually return to the Red Sea corridor. CMA CGM had previously indicated plans to increase transits via the Suez Canal as security conditions appeared to stabilise and attacks by Yemeni Houthi forces subsided. Last month, the group also conducted a limited number of Suez transits under naval escort.

Despite this, CMA CGM has now decided not to resume the three Europe–Asia connections via Suez, instead maintaining the diversion around Africa. The Cape of Good Hope route significantly lengthens transit times but avoids the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea, which has been the focus of security concerns in recent years.

Other carriers have taken a more cautious step towards the corridor. In December, Danish shipping group Maersk completed its first Suez Canal transit in almost two years, followed earlier this month by the announcement of a structural return of its MECL service to the trans-Suez route after successful trial sailings.

The Houthis, who have targeted commercial shipping in the region in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict, have largely halted attacks since the ceasefire. However, CMA CGM’s decision reflects continued concern over broader geopolitical risks. Industry observers note that renewed tensions involving Iran — a key ally of the Houthis — and recent threats of military action by US President Donald Trump have added a further layer of uncertainty. The Houthis have previously warned they could resume attacks on Red Sea shipping if the US intervenes militarily.

In its advisory, CMA CGM said it remains “fully mobilised across our global network” and will continue to monitor developments closely before making any further routing adjustments.