German Shipping Company Hapag-Lloyd Will Not Resume Use of Suez Canal, Citing Safety Concerns

German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd has announced that it will not be using the Suez Canal for its ships, deeming it “too dangerous.” Instead, the company plans to continue rerouting its vessels via the Cape of Good Hope.

This decision comes in the wake of recent incidents that have raised concerns about the safety of transiting through the Suez Canal. One such incident was the grounding of the container ship Ever Given in March 2021, which caused a six-day blockage of the canal and disrupted global trade. These incidents have prompted Hapag-Lloyd to reassess its route options.

Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, operates a fleet of container vessels that transport goods across the globe. The company’s decision to avoid the Suez Canal will have significant implications for its operations and the shipping industry as a whole.

The Suez Canal, located in Egypt, is a vital waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, providing a crucial shortcut for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. It is one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, with thousands of vessels passing through each year.

However, Hapag-Lloyd’s concerns about the safety of the Suez Canal are not unfounded. The canal has experienced several security incidents in recent years, including attacks by pirates and the threat of terrorism. These risks, coupled with the potential for accidents and blockages, have led Hapag-Lloyd to seek alternative routes for its ships.

The Cape of Good Hope, located at the southern tip of Africa, is a traditional route for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. While it adds several days to the journey compared to using the Suez Canal, Hapag-Lloyd believes that the increased safety and reliability outweigh the time and cost implications.

By rerouting its ships, Hapag-Lloyd aims to protect its cargo, crew, and vessels from potential risks. The company’s decision reflects a growing trend among shipping companies to prioritize safety and security in their operations, even if it means incurring additional expenses.

The German company’s move may also have broader implications for the shipping industry. If other major shipping companies follow suit and avoid the Suez Canal, it could lead to a decrease in traffic through the waterway and impact the economies of countries that rely on the canal for revenue.

In response to Hapag-Lloyd’s decision, the Suez Canal Authority has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of ships transiting through the canal. The authority has implemented various measures to enhance security, including increased surveillance and cooperation with international navies.

While the Suez Canal remains an important route for global trade, Hapag-Lloyd’s choice to reroute its ships via the Cape of Good Hope highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve the safety and security of maritime transportation. As the shipping industry continues to navigate complex challenges, ensuring the protection of vessels, crew, and cargo will remain a top priority.

In conclusion, German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd has decided not to resume its use of the Suez Canal due to safety concerns. The company will reroute its ships via the Cape of Good Hope, prioritizing the protection of its assets and personnel. This decision raises questions about the future of the Suez Canal and underscores the importance of safety and security in the shipping industry.

.

BREAKING| German Hapag-Lloyd says it will not resume its use of the Suez Canal describing it as “too dangerous” and affirms that it would continue to reroute its ships via the Cape of Good Hope. pic.twitter.com/xGKdSoEOOn

— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) December 27, 2023

Source

@QudsNen said BREAKING| German Hapag-Lloyd says it will not resume its use of the Suez Canal describing it as "too dangerous" and affirms that it would continue to reroute its ships via the Cape of Good Hope.

RELATED STORY.