Global container shipping leader MSC has declared an “End of Voyage” for all cargo currently bound for ports in the Arabian Gulf, citing the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.

In a customer advisory, the company confirmed that containers currently under its custody — whether already at sea or waiting in port — will no longer continue to their original Gulf destinations.

Instead, the shipments will be discharged at the next safe port of call and made available for local delivery.

Emergency surcharge applied

MSC has introduced a flat surcharge of $800 per container to cover the costs associated with the deviation and cargo handling adjustments.

The company has also invoked Clause 13 of its Sea Waybill and Bill of Lading terms, which covers special circumstances and allows carriers to pass certain costs onto cargo owners.

Under this clause, customers will be responsible for all discharge-related expenses, including:
• handling charges
• storage fees
• port services
• other associated logistics costs

Customers wishing to redirect their cargo to another destination will be required to submit a new booking through MSC’s local agencies.

Ships stranded across the region

According to maritime analytics firm Alphaliner, MSC currently has 15 container vessels stranded at Gulf ports, representing a combined capacity of approximately 109,000 TEU.

The situation illustrates the growing operational risks facing global shipping lines as geopolitical tensions intensify.

Maersk reviewing contingency options

MSC’s closest competitor, Maersk, has not yet taken similar action but confirmed that it is actively assessing operational contingency measures.

Speaking during a media briefing in Singapore, Bhavan Vempati, Head of Asia Market for Ocean Products, said the company is evaluating how cargo flows can be rerouted and how regional hub operations could be leveraged.

One key hub under consideration is Salalah in Oman, which has so far remained operational.

Maersk has already introduced emergency surcharges on cargo connected to the region, including:
• $1,800 per TEU
• $3,000 for 40- and 45-foot containers
• $3,800 for reefer containers

The fees are intended to offset additional operational costs linked to rerouting, delays and logistical adjustments.

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