Shipping Crisis Could Impact SA Fuel And Food Prices As Vessels Divert Via Cape Amid Middle East War

South Africa could feel the ripple effects of escalating Middle East tensions as major shipping lines divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing transit times and freight costs.

Global logistics giant Maersk confirmed it has suspended sailings through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait due to security risks.

“Due to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East region following the escalating military conflict, we have decided to pause future Trans Suez sailings through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait for the time being,” the company said.

Cape of Good Hope Becomes Key Global Shipping Route

With one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors effectively closed, vessels are now sailing around southern Africa — placing the Cape of Good Hope back at the centre of global trade routes.

Maersk confirmed it is rerouting services around South Africa, prioritising crew and cargo safety.

Other major operators, including Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM, have taken similar steps.

For South Africa, this presents both opportunity and pressure. Increased vessel traffic could boost activity at the Port of Durban and Port of Cape Town. However, longer shipping routes mean higher fuel usage and freight costs.

What It Could Mean for Fuel and Food Prices

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for global oil supply. Any prolonged disruption could push international oil prices higher.

For South Africans already grappling with fuel price volatility, this could translate into increased petrol and diesel costs in the coming months.

Retailers importing electronics, clothing, machinery and certain food products may also face delays and higher transport costs — expenses that are often passed on to consumers.

War Risk Charges and Trade Suspensions

Shipping companies have introduced additional surcharges for cargo moving through the affected Gulf regions.

Hapag-Lloyd announced a War Risk Surcharge for shipments connected to Gulf markets, while CMA CGM implemented what it calls an “emergency conflict surcharge”.

Maersk has suspended certain shipments in and out of Gulf states and paused new bookings between parts of the Indian subcontinent and Upper Gulf markets.

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Existing cargo already at sea remains under monitoring, with companies reviewing bookings on a case-by-case basis.

As ships bypass the Middle East chokepoints and sail around Africa, South Africa’s geographic position once again becomes strategically significant.

But experts warn that local ports — already battling congestion and infrastructure challenges — must be prepared for any potential surge in traffic.

For now, shipping firms say safety remains their top priority. However, if instability persists, South Africans may soon feel the economic impact at the fuel pump and supermarket tills.