Maersk suspends cargo reservations to several Gulf countries due to the crisis in the Middle East

The shipping companyMaerskhas announced the suspension of new maritime transport reservations to several Gulf countries due to instability in the Middle East and the associated operational risks arising from the regional situation. The measure affects different types of cargo and is part of a package of actions aimed at ensuring the safety of personnel, vessels, and goods.According to the company, reservations for refrigerated cargo, hazardous goods, oversized cargo, and certain shipments of dry cargo to and from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia are suspended, with some exceptions for essential products. These include critical food, medicines, and highly perishable goods, which will receive priority attention whenever possible. The restrictions also affect hazardous goods destined for Israel, where certain classes and UN identification numbers have been limited in ports such as Haifa and Ashdod.In addition, the shipping company has announced the implementation of an emergency fee to manage the cargo that is already in transit or with prior reservations to the region. This surcharge aims to cover costs arising from alternative routes, temporary storage, and additional logistics until it is safe to complete transportation. The so-called emergency fee ranges from $1,800 for 20-foot dry containers, $3,000 for 40-foot containers, and up to $3,800 for special containers, refrigerated or with hazardous goods.The company also introduced a temporary global fuel surcharge to ensure the supply of vessels, given the irregular distribution of fuel in some areas. This surcharge will take effect from March 25 and will be reviewed every two weeks based on availability and fuel costs.The company assures that it will continue to monitor the evolution of the situation in the region and will keep its customers informed of any changes that may affect logistical operations.