COSCO SHIPPING Lines: Resumes New Booking Services for Far East to Six Middle Eastern Countries

On March 25, 2026, COSCO SHIPPING Lines (hereinafter referred to as "COSCO SHIPPING Lines") officially issued a service notice, announcing the resumption of new bookings for standard containers from the Far East to six countries in the Middle East—United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq—effective immediately. This move comes just 21 days after the company suspended related services.

It is reported that COSCO SHIPPING Lines announced the suspension of new booking services globally for the aforementioned six Middle Eastern countries on March 4, due to the escalating conflicts in the region at the time and restrictions on maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. To ensure cargo safety and operational stability, the company made the decision to suspend services based on risk assessments. The resumption of booking services coincides with Iran's clear statement that vessels from non-belligerent countries can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz by complying with relevant regulations and coordinating with Iranian authorities, providing certain conditions for the restoration of shipping services.

COSCO SHIPPING Lines emphasized in the notice that the current situation in the Middle East remains volatile. As the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global shipping, its passage safety continues to be affected by the conflict. Therefore, the arrangements for the resumed new booking services and actual transportation processes may be subject to changes. Regarding specific booking details, related fees, and transportation terms, the company advises customers to promptly contact local agents, dedicated customer service representatives, or the company directly for the most accurate information.

For bookings accepted from the Far East to the Middle East prior to the issuance of the service notice, COSCO SHIPPING Lines explicitly stated that the resumption of new booking services will not affect or impair the company's legal rights concerning the transportation arrangements for already booked cargo. The company will continue to closely monitor developments in the Middle East and provide timely updates on business progress and route adjustments through its official website and customer service channels.

Currently, the situation in the Middle East has significantly impacted the global shipping market, with a sharp decline in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and a surge in shipping costs. Several international shipping giants have previously taken measures such as suspending routes and diverting to avoid risks. COSCO SHIPPING Lines' resumption of related booking services not only provides shipping convenience for customers but also demonstrates its responsiveness to regional shipping demands, while safeguarding the interests of all parties through clear risk warnings.

At the end of the notice, COSCO SHIPPING Lines expressed gratitude to customers for their understanding and consistent support during this special period and pledged to flexibly adjust business arrangements based on the evolving situation, striving to ensure the safety and stability of cargo transportation.