Timely Implementation of Solutions to Maintain Maritime Transport Flows Amid Middle East Tensions

Tensions in the Middle East are becoming a major test for maritime transport, increasing logistics costs, driving up fuel prices, and posing a risk of disruption to global supply chains. In response to this situation, regulatory agencies and the shipping business community are implementing various solutions to maintain import and export activities and minimize the impact on the Vietnamese economy.

Middle East Tensions Increase Pressure on Maritime Shipping

During the first months of 2026, escalating geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz have created significant challenges for maritime shipping across the Middle East. Major shipping routes have experienced repeated disruptions, driving up fuel prices and affecting global trade. Before the conflict intensified, fuel oil (FO) traded at approximately USD 550 per metric ton, while diesel oil (DO) averaged USD 750 per metric ton. However, FO prices have since climbed to around USD 1,100 per metric ton, and DO prices have approached USD 2,000 per metric ton, representing increases of 100% to 120%.

Fuel Costs and Ocean Freight Rates Surge

Because fuel accounts for approximately 30% to 40% of a vessel’s total operating expenses, rising oil prices have quickly pushed Middle East shipping costs to significantly higher levels.

As a result, container freight rates have increased by 17% to 25%, while dry bulk freight rates have risen by 30% to 45%, depending on the shipping route and cargo type.

Furthermore, many major shipping lines have rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope instead of transiting through the Middle East. This alternative route extends voyage times by 10 to 14 days and increases fuel consumption by 30% to 40%. Consequently, overall vessel operating costs have climbed by an additional 20% to 30%.

Shipping Lines Introduce New Surcharges

Facing higher operating expenses, several global shipping companies have introduced new surcharges to offset rising costs.

For example, Maersk has implemented an emergency fuel surcharge of up to USD 1,800 per TEU for dry cargo and USD 3,800 per TEU for refrigerated and dangerous cargo. Meanwhile, MSC has introduced additional charges ranging from USD 122 to USD 184 per TEU.

In addition, CMA CGM has applied fuel surcharges between USD 150 and USD 180 per TEU while also introducing port congestion surcharges of up to USD 600 per container. These additional fees continue to increase financial pressure on importers, exporters, and global logistics providers.

Vietnamese Ports Feel the Impact

The effects of disruptions to Middle East shipping have become increasingly visible in Vietnam’s port operations.

According to industry reports, liquid cargo throughput at Hai Phong Port declined in March 2026 because supply disruptions and higher commodity prices reduced cargo volumes. Moreover, several shipping lines temporarily suspended cargo bookings to the Middle East or introduced additional surcharges to cover higher operating costs.

These developments have increased pressure on Vietnamese exporters, importers, and domestic logistics companies that rely on stable international shipping services.

Authorities Implement Response Measures

To maintain stable maritime transportation and minimize supply chain disruptions, the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration has introduced several regulatory measures.

Specifically, authorities have instructed shipowners, logistics companies, and terminal operators not to exploit the situation by imposing unreasonable freight increases or unauthorized surcharges.

At the same time, ports, fuel suppliers, and marine pilot organizations have been encouraged to improve operational coordination, reduce vessel waiting times, and lower operating expenses. Maritime port authorities have also strengthened inspections of service pricing and pledged to take strict action against any violations that could disrupt the supply chain.

Maintaining Maritime Connectivity to Protect Global Supply Chains

Overall, maintaining stable maritime transportation in the Middle East remains essential for global trade and Vietnam’s import and export activities.

As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, close cooperation among government authorities, shipping companies, port operators, and logistics providers will play a crucial role in reducing operational risks and ensuring the uninterrupted movement of goods.

Therefore, continued coordination across the maritime industry will help strengthen supply chain resilience, support international trade, and promote greater stability in the global shipping market.