Suez canal container ship traffic 2026 – update 1

The global shipping industry is cautiously optimistic as container ship transits through the Suez Canal show signs of recovery.

26 containerships passed read sea on Week 2 for 2026.

Below is the update for first two weeks -

Before late 2023, there were about ~80+ weekly transits.

We have posted a recent blog on how Maersk has shifted MECL service to Red sea passage.

What’s Driving the Shift Back to Suez

1. Improved Red Sea Security

2. Cost and Time Efficiency

3. Commercial Pressures

As global trade demand increases, carriers are incentivized to shorten delivery times and reduce operational expenses, both of which favour Suez Canal usage when possible.

he rebound in Suez Canal voyages marks a pivotal moment for global shipping after years of disruption. While full recovery is not yet here, the latest data and tools available to the industry show that carriers are cautiously shifting back toward traditional routes — a decision that could shape freight costs, transit times, and supply chain reliability in 2026 and beyond.