Suez Canal Reports Normal Traffic Despite Major Carrier Withdrawals

Key Details The Suez Canal Authority confirmed that vessel traffic is flowing normally in both directions despite heightened regional tensions. Chairman Osama Rabie stated that navigational services operate around the clock, with 56 vessels and 2.6 million gross tons transiting Monday alone. Why It Matters Major carriers like CMA CGM and Maersk have suspended some services through the canal, citing security concerns from Houthi attacks and regional instability. However, the SCA insists these suspensions are temporary measures dependent on security improvements. The Big Picture Suez Canal traffic remains significantly below pre-2024 levels. In 2025, only 12,758 vessels transited compared to 26,434 in 2023, representing a sharp decline from the record-breaking year. Net tonnage fell to 522 million tons from the 2023 peak of 1.568 billion tons. What's Next Shippers and carriers are currently negotiating long-term contracts for the year ahead. The SCA expressed optimism about a breakthrough in regional security, which would restore confidence in the critical trade route connecting Europe to Asia.