Global maritime chokepoints under stress – status update 12th March

Global maritime trade routes remain under significant pressure as multiple disruptions converge across key shipping chokepoints.

• As of 12 March 2026, the Strait of Hormuz remains the most critical flashpoint after recent attacks on commercial vessels, forcing several shipping lines to delay or suspend Gulf transits. The strait normally carries nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply, making the situation closely monitored by energy and shipping markets.

• At the same time, traffic in the Red Sea and Suez Canal corridor remains well below normal levels, with many container carriers still routing vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding 15-20 days to Asia–Europe voyages.

• In Europe, labour action has also disrupted operations at Belgian ports including Antwerp-Bruges, one of the continent’s largest container hubs handling about 13.6 million TEU annually.

• There is a mild congestion at Panama Canal.

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