EgyptProtests Raise Concerns

Shipping companies have been watching the situation in Egypt since January 25 closely for any impact on the huge business that moves through the Suez Canal. During these times The Suez Canal remained open, and ships are transiting on schedule. Shipping companies have re-opened offices despite escalating violence in Cairo on February 3.

A curfew left some ports short-staffed earlier this month and forced to work on a limited basis. That causes the delays and back ups at the Egyptian Ports. Vessel-handling operations were starting to return to normal in Port Said, Egypt, Feburary 5.

Most of the concern over shipping operations in Egypt has focused on the large number of oil tankers that move through the Suez Canal daily. Even though those tankers have continued to transit the canal oil prices has increased on fears of possible disruption. Also any interruption on the canal would force ships moving between Asia and Europe to go around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding some 6,000 miles to the journey.