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HMM latest container line to reroute from the Red Sea

South Korea’s HMM is the latest container line to say it is rerouting all vessels from the Red Sea due attacks on shipping by Yemeni Houthi militia.

Marcus Hand, Editor

December 19, 2023

1 Min Read
HMM vessel transiting Suez Canal
For illustration a HMM containership transiting the Suez CanalPhoto: HMM LinkedIn page

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.

About the Author

Marcus Hand

Editor

Marcus Hand is the editor of Seatrade Maritime News and a dedicated maritime journalist with over two decades of experience covering the shipping industry in Asia.

Marcus is also an experienced industry commentator and has chaired many conferences and round tables. Before joining Seatrade at the beginning of 2010, Marcus worked for the shipping industry journal Lloyd's List for a decade and before that the Singapore Business Times covering shipping and aviation.

In November 2022, Marcus was announced as a member of the Board of Advisors to the Singapore Journal of Maritime Talent and Technology (SJMTT) to help bring together thought leadership around the key areas of talent and technology.

Marcus is the founder of the Seatrade Maritime Podcast that delivers commentary, opinions and conversations on shipping's most important topics.

Conferences & Webinars

Marcus Hand regularly moderates at international maritime events. Below you’ll find a list of selected past conferences and webinars.

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