COSCO SHIPPING LINES has temporarily halted the acceptance of new bookings for several Middle East shipping lanes. This decision comes in response to the escalating regional conflicts and the subsequent restrictions impacting maritime traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz.

The suspension specifically affects cargo originating from any global location destined for the United Arab Emirates (with the exception of Khor Fakkan and Fujairah), Bahrain, Iraq, Saudi Arabia (excluding Jeddah), and Kuwait. It also applies to shipments originating from the United Arab Emirates (excluding Khor Fakkan and Fujairah), Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, Saudi Arabia (excluding Jeddah), and Kuwait, with destinations worldwide.

The shipping company stated that it is currently assessing cargo already in transit. This includes evaluating potential alternative discharge ports and implementing other operational adjustments in line with its Bill of Lading terms and conditions. COSCO SHIPPING LINES continues to closely monitor the evolving situation in the region.