COSCO SHIPPING began its westbound transit through the Suez Canal with the tanker OOCL Portugal on October 4, 2025, marking the first such transit since the onset of the Red Sea crisis. This event signifies the gradual return of global shipping lines to Suez Canal routes following recent changes in the regional security situation.
Details of Tanker Transits Through the Suez Canal
According to reports, OOCL Portugal made its first journey from east to west through the Suez Canal on October 4, 2025. This transit is part of the AEU1/LL1 service, which connects to the Ocean Alliance network. Previously, COSCO SHIPPING had not made any westbound transits through this canal for over two years.
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In this context, other vessels from the FE1 service will soon transit through the Suez Canal as well. For example, the vessel One Continuity, owned by ONE, will depart from Laem Chabang towards the Suez Canal on October 19, 2026, and is expected to arrive at the canal on November 9.
Security and Economic Impacts
Recent developments in the region, including security threats from Houthi attacks, have significantly influenced shipping decisions. Reports indicate that the Houthis sent a letter to the European Union on September 10, 2025, promising not to attack European cargo ships. This action may have contributed to increased confidence in returning to Suez Canal routes.
Analysts believe these changes could facilitate the return of container ships to the Suez Canal. Last week, 30 vessels with a capacity of over 4000 TEU transited the canal, marking the busiest week for ship transits through the Suez Canal since 2024.
Overall, since May 2025, 140 container ships have opted to change their route from the Cape of Good Hope to the Suez Canal, representing a transfer of over 2 million TEU in capacity.
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