SINGAPORE — Global shipping companies are continuing to reassess routes through the Middle East as security risks and disruptions affect major maritime corridors.
Longer routes
When vessels avoid high-risk waters, many travel around southern Africa. The alternative route can add substantial distance and increase fuel consumption.
Insurance costs
Higher perceived risk can increase insurance premiums for vessels and cargo. Shipping companies may pass part of those costs to customers.
Supply chains
Longer journeys can delay deliveries of consumer goods, industrial components and energy products. Businesses may respond by holding more inventory or changing suppliers.
Energy markets
Oil and gas shipments are particularly sensitive to maritime disruptions. Longer routes can raise delivered energy costs even when crude prices themselves do not change dramatically.
Ports
Ports in Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia can experience changes in traffic as shipping companies adjust routes. Some ports may see increased demand while others lose transit business.
Inflation
Transport costs are one factor in global inflation. Persistent disruptions can therefore affect prices for goods far from the original conflict zone.
What companies are doing
Operators are monitoring security assessments, weather, insurance markets and port congestion before deciding routes.
The bigger picture
Modern supply chains depend heavily on a small number of maritime chokepoints. Disruptions in one region can therefore influence businesses and consumers around the world.
Read more international business coverage in our Business section.
Source: Reuters and international shipping-market reporting, September-October 2026.
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