Suez Canal Makes a Comeback: Shipping Giants Return After Two Years

06.11.2025

The Suez Canal is officially making waves again

After months of decline due to regional tensions, October marked the best month in two years for vessel transits through the canal. The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) reported a 10% rise in total tonnage between July and October, with more than 4,400 ships passing through — including 229 returning vessels last month alone.

To keep the momentum going, SCA Chairman Admiral Ossama Rabiee met with representatives from 20 major shipping companies to discuss the latest developments in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb. His message? “We’re open — and ready to welcome you back.”

Among the highlights:

- CMA CGM has begun trial voyages with 17,000+ TEU ships and plans to increase traffic through the canal.

- MSC expects a swift return of southbound vessels soon.

- Evergreen and COSCO both confirmed readiness to resume full operations once conditions stabilize.

However, as Inchcape Shipping Agency noted, high marine insurance costs remain a key obstacle delaying some carriers’ return.

Still, optimism is rising — and the Suez Canal appears ready to reclaim its role as a vital artery for global trade.