GLOBAL MARITIME TRANSPORT: AN ENVIRONMENT IN CONSTANT MUTATION
International maritime transport continues to evolve in a constantly changing environment. Adjustments to shipping routes, the emergence of innovative technical solutions, regulatory changes, and the opening of new trade agreements are gradually reshaping the organization of global trade.
MARITIME ROUTES AND CAPACITIES UNDER PRESSURE
Strategic shipping routes remain heavily impacted by international instability. After a period of caution, Maersk has announced a more structural return of certain services in the Red Sea and via the Suez Canal, while maintaining a reinforced security approach. Conversely, CMA CGM, given the complex and uncertain environment, has decided to temporarily reroute some of its services via the Cape of Good Hope, a decision that will be regularly reviewed.
At the same time, the Asian market is becoming increasingly tight as Chinese New Year approaches. A general decline in capacity is expected between weeks 8 and 12 as a result of service adjustments and blank sailings. This contraction is accompanied by port congestion already observed in Qingdao, but also at several major European hubs such as Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Antwerp, with direct impacts on freight delivery times.
ENERGY TRANSITION AND TRADE AGREEMENT
Alongside operational challenges, the maritime sector is continuing its energy transition. The growing adoption of sail-based solutions, such as deflectors, illustrates shipowners’ desire to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. This trend is reinforced by the rise of the Emissions Trading System (ETS), with an ETS surcharge covering 100% of emissions reported in 2026.
Furthermore, the free trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries remains on hold for the time being. Although signed, the ratification process has been temporarily halted, with MEPs choosing to refer the matter to the EU Court of Justice.
In this changing environment, our Balguerie Group experts continue to support you by providing tailored logistics solutions, while anticipating future economic, geopolitical, and environmental developments.
