CMA CGM is set to become the first major carrier to restore one of its services through the Red Sea and Suez Canal, beginning in 2026. The company plans to reroute its INDAMEX service, which connects Sri Lanka, India, Jeddah, and the U.S. East Coast. Returning via Suez will cut transit time by two weeks, reducing the full loop to 77 days.
Analysts note this is an important step but caution that a full industry return will be slow due to ongoing safety concerns. CMA CGM previously kept limited services running with military escorts (Operation Aspides), despite delays and risks.
Recent Suez transits by CMA CGM suggest growing confidence, but data shows traffic remains far below pre-crisis levels (120 ships in Nov 2025 vs. 583 in Oct 2023). Experts warn the security situation is still fragile, highlighted by a recent skiff incident near Bab al-Mandeb.
Other carriers like Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd also anticipate a gradual return. Insurance availability and cost remain major barriers before normal routing can resume.
Source: The Maritime Executive
Analysts note this is an important step but caution that a full industry return will be slow due to ongoing safety concerns. CMA CGM previously kept limited services running with military escorts (Operation Aspides), despite delays and risks.
Recent Suez transits by CMA CGM suggest growing confidence, but data shows traffic remains far below pre-crisis levels (120 ships in Nov 2025 vs. 583 in Oct 2023). Experts warn the security situation is still fragile, highlighted by a recent skiff incident near Bab al-Mandeb.
Other carriers like Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd also anticipate a gradual return. Insurance availability and cost remain major barriers before normal routing can resume.
Source: The Maritime Executive