The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz directly impacts international containerized maritime transport.

Around 20–25% of global oil is no longer circulating worldwide, and routes for large vessels are becoming increasingly limited, as they lose access to key ports in the region. Delays are already appearing across supply chains, along with port congestion caused by disruptions along maritime routes.

Container shipping costs are rising rapidly due to increasing oil prices on international markets, while risk insurance costs are surging. The result is clear, freight rates are steadily increasing. Many shipping lines have already announced the introduction of additional charges such as EBS, Emergency Bunker Surcharge, to cover the growing cost of fueling vessels.

Shipping lines are already avoiding the Middle East region entirely, especially considering that the Suez Canal has been largely avoided for over two years by most international carriers. “Blank sailings” are becoming more frequent. Containers are no longer available where they are most needed, which reduces overall transport capacity. Ports are becoming congested and the impact is immediate.

International container shipping capacity is decreasing, even though it still exceeds cargo demand at this moment, at least on the Asia to Europe route. Transit times are increasing and prices are rising slowly but steadily.

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