HMM latest container line to reroute from the Red Sea

In a circular to customers HMM said it was deeply concerned about attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

“As a precautionary measure, we have instructed all HMM vessels in the area, bound to pass through the Suez Canal, to reroute to Cape of Good Hope to ensure safe delivery of your cargoes and protection of our crews and vessels as well,” HMM said.

Sailing via the Cape of Good Hope avoiding the Red Sea and Suez Canal adds around 7,000 nm to an Asia – Europe voyage and an additional 10 – 14 days sailing.

HMM joins THE Alliance partner Hapag-Lloyd in rerouting vessels from the Red Sea, along with MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM, all of which had ships come under attack in the region.

HMM’s other alliance partners Ocean Network Express (ONE) and Yang Ming have not announced the rerouting of vessels. “We will provide further updates on THEA (The Alliance) vessels’ traffic operated by other members as soon as possible,” HMM said.

The US Defense Department has announced the setting up of a multi-national force – Operation Prosperity Guardian - to secure commercial shipping in the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

It remains to be seen if the initiative will give shipping lines the confidence to return to transiting the Red Sea.

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