COSCO SHIPPING LINES suspends new bookings on Gulf

COSCO SHIPPING LINES has suspended acceptance of new bookings on several Middle East routes following the escalation of regional conflicts and restrictions affecting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The suspension applies to cargo moving from worldwide origins to the United Arab Emirates (excluding Khor Fakkan and Fujairah), Bahrain, Iraq, Saudi Arabia (excluding Jeddah) and Kuwait, as well as shipments from the United Arab Emirates (excluding Khor Fakkan and Fujairah), Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, Saudi Arabia (excluding Jeddah) and Kuwait to worldwide destinations.

The carrier said it is conducting assessments for cargo already on board, including evaluating possible contingency discharge ports and other operational measures in accordance with its Bill of Lading terms and conditions, while continuing to monitor developments in the region.