The Hamburg-based container shipping company Hapag-Lloyd expects further scheduled services to resume on the route through the Suez Canal. This remains subject to developments in the security situation in the Red Sea.
At a meeting with the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) in Ismailia, representatives from Hapag-Lloyd and the Canal Authority discussed closer cooperation and the possible expansion of vessel transits. Those taking part in the talks included SCA Chief Executive Ossama Rabiee and Juan Pablo Richards, Hapag-Lloyd’s Regional Head for Southern Europe.
According to an SCA statement, Richards explained that the shipping company continues to monitor developments in the Red Sea and the security situation for shipping closely. On this basis, Hapag-Lloyd will decide on any adjustments to timetables and routes. The gradual resumption of shipping traffic through the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Suez Canal will also play a role in this.
According to Richards, further Hapag-Lloyd services could return to the Suez route in the near future. He noted that two services are already operating between Asia and Europe via the Canal. No specific details were given as to which other services might use the shorter route in future or when such changes are due to take place.
SCA Chief Executive Rabiee emphasised that the Suez Canal is prepared for the return of international liner services. The authority has further developed its nautical services and modernised its fleet to meet the requirements of the shipping lines. He expressed the hope that Hapag-Lloyd would fully return its services to the route through the Suez Canal.
CFO of the shipping company Hapag-Lloyd
In addition to the possible expansion of transits, the meeting also addressed further areas of cooperation. For instance, a collaboration between the Suez Canal Authority’s Maritime Training and Simulation Academy and the ‘Tahya Misr 1’ container terminal in the Egyptian port of Damietta was discussed. Hapag-Lloyd holds a stake in the terminal via the “Damietta Alliance”. A potential collaboration is intended, in particular, to support the training of captains.
Hapag-Lloyd at the HANSA Forum
Hapag-Lloyd’s schedules – particularly the financial ones – will also be examined in more detail at the upcoming HANSA Forum on 26 November 2026. Mark Frese, CFO of the Hamburg-based shipping company, will speak at the forum on the topic of financing and the strategy for the coming year. You can find all the information about the programme and how to register here on our website.
