Hapag-Lloyd suspends new bookings to Manila, Batangas, and Subic Bay amid ongoing port congestion and equipment return issues.
Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world's largest container shipping lines with a fleet of more than 300 vessels and a service network spanning over 130 countries, has suspended the acceptance of all new bookings to Manila, Batangas, and Subic Bay. The suspension applies across all origins and trade lanes and takes effect immediately.
The carrier attributes the decision to continued port congestion and severe constraints on depot and empty-container return capacity across the Philippines. These conditions have limited the carrier's ability to reposition equipment and maintain reliable transit schedules into the country's principal gateways.
The booking suspension is currently in effect and is scheduled to remain in place through December 31, 2026. Three key facts define the scope of the action:
* Affected destinations: Manila, Batangas, and Subic Bay.
* Coverage: All origins and all trade lanes. No point of loading is exempt.
* Duration: Currently scheduled through December 31, 2026, subject to change as conditions in the Philippines evolve.
The measure reflects operational realities on the ground rather than a change in service commitment. Empty-container return capacity remains the central constraint, and until depot throughput and yard availability recover, the carrier will not accept additional volume bound for these ports.
