International Shipping Trends - January 20,2026-Gemini Partners Return to Suez

January 20, 2026

TDD-global

14123

Guide

Highlights at a glance

Three major developments are shaping global shipping and trade. First, following Maersk's lead, Hapag-Lloyd will resume Suez Canal transits for its joint MEll service, reconnecting key trade routes between the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Mediterranean. Second, carriers have announced significant sailing cancellations, with 10% of planned voyages (68 out of 698) canceled between mid-January and late February. The Transpacific eastbound trade lane is most affected, absorbing nearly half the cuts. Third, in a potential trade policy escalation, the European Union is preparing retaliatory measures against the United States, including tariffs on approximately $93 billion worth of US goods or restrictions on US companies. This response is linked to US tariff threats concerning Greenland, with a decision expected after February 6 based on Washington's actions. These events highlight ongoing volatility in logistics corridors, capacity management by carriers, and geopolitical tensions impacting international commerce.

Gemini Partners Return to Suez

After Maersk resumed MECL via the Suez Canal,its Gemini partner Hapag-Lloyd is set to route thejoint MEll service the same way, restoring links between the Indian Subcontinent, Middle Eastand Mediterranean ports.

Carriers Cancel 10% of Sailings

From Jan 19 to Feb 22 carriers will cancel 68 of698 planned sailings, about 10%. EastboundTranspacific takes 47% of cuts, Asia-Europe andMed 38%, and westbound Transatlantic 15%, whilemost sailings continue.

EU Mulls Tariffs on US Goods

The EU is considering tariffs on about 93b of US goods or limits on US firms in retaliation for tariff threats tied to Greenland. A paused list may bereactivated after Feb 6 depending on Washington' s next steps.