Maersk highlights unpredictable shipping in the Strait of Hormuz while launching new services and addressing regulatory changes across Europe.
Maersk said shipping conditions in the Strait of Hormuz remain unpredictable despite reports of progress towards a peace deal, while announcing new services and regulatory updates across Europe, according to a Maersk press release.
The company stressed that the safety of personnel and cargo remains its priority as strikes continue in the region. It has launched a Baltic Sea-SLA service linking Gdansk, Bremerhaven, and Genoa with Port Said and Alexandria, offering faster and more reliable access to Egypt and the East Mediterranean.
Terminals in Rotterdam, Bremerhaven, and Hamburg are facing high yard density for dangerous goods, with customers urged to collect units promptly. Antwerp terminals are also experiencing weather-related disruptions, while Rotterdam continues to report tight conditions and extended waiting times.
The UK confirmed that its Emissions Trading Scheme will extend to domestic maritime activities from July 1, requiring customers to factor in new greenhouse gas costs.
Rail operations from Hamburg and Bremerhaven are being delayed due to infrastructure upgrades, which are reducing track capacity and inland flexibility. Customers are advised to plan for longer transit times and consider alternatives.
Air freight services between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe remain disrupted, though signs of recovery are emerging. Maersk has deployed multimodal solutions and introduced a controlled air network for pharmaceutical shipments between Europe and the US, with plans to extend to Europe-China later this year.
Customs changes from July will remove the duty-free threshold for low-value goods entering the EU, imposing a flat EUR3 duty per item. Digital ATA carnets will also begin replacing paper versions across Europe, while Ireland assumes the EU Council Presidency with a focus on competitiveness and UK customs engagement.
The EU and US have agreed to eliminate tariffs on a range of industrial goods and introduce preferential conditions for some agricultural products, though safeguards remain in place.
