MSC schedules more east-west liner services for Suez Canal transit

Mediterranean Shipping Company is expanding its use of the Suez Canal for several east-west liner services. According to The Loadstar, this decision follows a detailed assessment of the current safety and operational environment in the Red Sea. The carrier joins the Gemini Cooperation and Ocean Alliance in cautiously reintroducing the waterway to their global networks.

The restoration affects both eastbound and westbound voyages across multiple routes, including the Asia-Mediterranean Jade and Tiger services, the Asia-North Europe Albatros service, and the India-Mediterranean Himalaya service. While several vessels have been named for this transition, the carrier noted that the safety of crews and cargo remains its "overriding priority" and contingency plans are still active.

Industry analyst Lars Jensen suggests these developments indicate a potential move toward normalized operations by late 2026. However, shipping lines still face significant logistical challenges, including equipment imbalances and the need to absorb excess capacity. Data indicates that transporting empty containers currently requires longer transit times, adding further costs to head-haul shipping operations.

Although MSC is increasing its Suez transits, the Premier Alliance remains the only major group yet to initiate a broad transition back to the route. Because the Premier Alliance holds slots on MSC’s Tiger service, some of its cargo will now move through the Red Sea despite the alliance's general stance. The industry transition remains gradual as carriers weigh security against efficiency.