Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd Will Resume Suez Canal Routing
The shipping carriers plan to restart their AE12 Asia-Mediterranean service via the Suez Canal on October 27.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Transportation
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Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will shift their AE12 service through the Suez Canal starting October 27, marking the final of four Gemini Cooperation routes to return to the path. Each vessel transit will remain subject to ongoing security reviews under naval protection.
Why it matters
The return of these major shipping services highlights a gradual recovery in canal traffic following an extended regional crisis. By returning to this route, carriers aim to optimize their logistics network between Asia and the Mediterranean.
The Suez Canal handled 1,358 vessel transits in August, generating $567.1 million in revenue and moving 68.3 million tons of net tonnage.
The players
Maersk
This global logistics company provides integrated container transportation and supply chain solutions.
Hapag-Lloyd
A major German international shipping and container transportation company operating a global fleet.
Suez Canal Authority
This Egyptian government agency is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Suez Canal.
CMA CGM
A French shipping and logistics group that manages one of the world largest container vessel fleets.
Gemini Cooperation
This is a strategic alliance between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd designed to improve shipping schedule reliability.
The details
The AE12 service rotation will include ports in Ningbo, Shanghai, Tanjung Pelepas, Algeciras, Koper, and Rijeka, with the vessel Umm Qarn performing the first crossing. Meanwhile, the ME2 service is scheduled for an eastbound transit via the canal following a departure from Port Tangier.
Timeline
Maersk completed eight Suez Canal transits in September 2025.
Carriers announced four service shifts to the Suez Canal on 14 September 2026.
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will resume AE12 Suez routing on 27 October 2026.
The ME2 service eastbound sailing will leave Port Tangier on 31 October 2026.
The vessel Umm Qarn will depart from Algeciras on 5 December 2026.
Market Landscape
The 12 percent share of global trade handled by the Suez Canal provides the economic framework for understanding why shipping carriers are prioritizing route normalization. This move aligns with industry efforts to reclaim transit efficiency lost during the recent security crisis.
Improved shipping schedules and the use of shorter canal routes may help stabilize container transit times for international goods. These logistics adjustments are designed to mitigate delays for businesses and consumers relying on the Asia-Mediterranean trade corridor.
The takeaway
The return of major carriers to the Suez Canal indicates a stabilizing trend for international supply chains. Businesses should continue to monitor security-related updates that may affect future maritime transit schedules.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Transportation logistics.
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