economy
March 7, 2026
Middle East crisis shifts maritime traffic to African coasts
Maritime traffic around South Africa has increased amid the escalating war in the Middle East
TL;DR
- Merchant ship traffic near South Africa has increased by 35% as carriers avoid the Strait of Hormuz.
- Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen sharply, with only four ships passing on March 3 compared to a usual average of 138.
- Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped by roughly 90%.
- International carriers like Hapag-Lloyd, CMA CGM, and Maersk are rerouting ships around Africa.
- A threat was issued by an Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official stating ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz would be set ablaze.
- South African exporters are experiencing knock-on effects, including rising fuel costs and shipping delays.
- The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 20% of global oil supply and is a key trade route for the Gulf region.
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