Middle East Tensions Escalate: Shipping Lines Issue Urgent Notices

International freight rates may surge sharply in the coming period as major shipping lines implement emergency measures to safeguard operations in the Middle East.

Amid the increasingly complex security situation in the region, several global shipping lines and logistics providers have issued urgent notices to temporarily suspend bookings for cargo moving to and from the Middle East in order to ensure the safety of vessels, crew, and cargo.

Starting from March 1, MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company, headquartered in Switzerland) announced the suspension of all cargo bookings from worldwide origins to the Middle East until further notice.

On March 4, MSC issued an additional notice declaring “End of Voyage Declaration for Shipments to The Arabian Gulf”.

According to the carrier, all shipments currently in transit will be diverted to the nearest safe port of discharge. At that port, the cargo will be discharged and made available to customers for local collection and further arrangements.

MSC also announced that a mandatory surcharge of USD 800 per container will apply to all affected shipments in order to cover deviation costs. In addition, all discharge-related expenses — including handling, storage, and other associated charges — will be borne entirely by the cargo owner, in accordance with the MSC Sea Waybill / Bill of Lading Terms and Conditions, particularly Clause 13 (Special Circumstances).

Shipping lines stated that they are continuing to closely monitor developments in the region and coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure operational safety.

Along with schedule disruptions on routes affected by the conflict, rising fuel prices are also exerting significant pressure on global freight rates, as the Middle East remains one of the world’s largest oil-producing regions.

According to market observations, container freight rates may increase significantly in the coming days. Similar to the instability experienced in the region during 2024–2025, the freight rate for a 40-foot container could rise two to three times compared with current levels.

At the same time, war-risk insurers are reviewing and rapidly increasing premiums for vessels operating in the Gulf region. Brent crude oil prices are also under strong upward pressure, which may lead to higher fuel surcharges in both maritime and air transport.

Furthermore, adjustments to shipping routes and the need to avoid high-risk areas may extend transit times for international cargo by 10–14 days, putting considerable pressure on just-in-time supply chains, particularly in the automotive parts, electronics, and food and agricultural sectors.

In response, many businesses are closely monitoring the situation in order to adjust sales contracts and shipment schedules accordingly.