The largest shipowners of the world container boycott Russian ports 

The protests against Russian aggression against Ukraine can also be seen in the container industry. Five of the six largest container lines in the world decided to suspend reservations to and from Russian ports after the invasion of Ukraine.

The German Hapag-Lloyd announced the suspension of reservations to Russian ports last week, immediately after it a similar decision was made by the Japanese ONE and Danish Maersk. On Tuesday (01.03) they were followed by Swiss MSC and French CMA CGM. The scale of the Russian ports is different depending on the carrier, for example the MSC – will continue to partially operate connections to Russian ports.

"Mediterranean Shipping Company introduced on 1 March, with immediate effect, a temporary suspension of all cargo reservations to/from Russia", stated MSC in a statement. However, it was stressed that "MSC will continue to accept bookings for the delivery of essential goods such as food, medical equipment and humanitarian goods". The MSC, explaining its decision to partially maintain connections with Russian ports, referred to a growing wave of sanctions aimed at Russian trade, which "may have a huge impact on Russian population's access to essential goods".

CMA CGM also highlighted the need to maintain maritime safety in the face of increasing tensions in the world. They announced, given the increased risk of cyber threats, taking action to secure critical cyber infrastructure.

It is also worth noting that with the exception of the Japanese ONE, most East Asian carriers – in particular the Chinese state-owned COSCO, the fourth largest line (with 498 container ships) – have not announced any changes in the operation of connections with Russia.

Written by JS