The Suez Canal Authority (SCA), led by Adm. Ossama Rabiee, convened a meeting with representatives from 23 major shipping lines and agencies, including chairmen from the Suez, Port Said, and Alexandria Chambers of Shipping. The dialogue focused on the implications of restored stability in the Red Sea and Bab El-Mandab region on navigation plans and schedules for the Suez Canal. The meeting took place at the SCA headquarters in Ismailia.
Adm. Rabiee emphasized the importance of maintaining active communication with clients, discussing developments in the region, and collaborating with shipping agencies to align mutual interests. He highlighted the current positive indicators of stability in the Red Sea, suggesting it as an opportune moment to adjust navigation schedules and restore maritime operations.
The admiral reassured the maritime community of the Suez Canal's readiness to operate at full capacity, addressing security concerns and ensuring navigational safety. Despite the Red Sea crisis, the SCA continued providing maritime and logistical services, introducing new offerings like maritime salvage, pollution control, and ship maintenance.
Adm. Rabiee noted that the SCA maintained pre-crisis transit pricing and extended rebate circulars to support the shipping industry. The Southern Sector Development Project, a key initiative, is complete and poised for operation, enhancing navigational safety and canal capacity.
The meeting also covered the adverse impacts of the Red Sea crisis on canal navigation, with many shipping lines opting for alternative routes. Mr. Bahaa Badr of Arabian Gulf Marine Trading Co. commended the SCA's efforts, while Rear Admiral Ehab Elbanan of Clarksons Company suggested temporary incentives for canal transit.
Mr. Hany El-Nady of Maersk Group expressed readiness to resume canal transits, contingent on sustained regional stability. Capt. Mohammed Badawi of Gulf Agency Company supported periodic meetings and temporary incentives for certain vessels.
Mr. Tariq Zaghloul of CMA CGM Egypt emphasized the canal's strategic importance, while Mr. Ehab Fathy of MSC highlighted the maintenance services at Port Said Shipyard. Mr. Mohamed Moselhy of the Alexandria Chamber of Shipping praised the SCA's communication efforts.
Other participants, including Mr. Adel Ellameey and Rear Admiral Abdel Qader Gaballah, stressed the need for insurance reassessment and the role of shipping agencies in conveying the region's status. Mr. Mamdouh Taha of COSCO Shipping Agency and Mr. Mahmoud El Kady of Kadmar Shipping noted the potential for yacht tourism growth.
Ms. Amany Helmy of Dominion Shipping Agencies called for increased incentives for yachts and cruise ships, while Mr. Ahmed Al-Masry of Medlevant Shipping Agency emphasized crew services. Capt. Mohamed El Boraey of GLOBAL LOGISTICS Agency advocated for attracting diverse vessel types.
Representatives from ONE shipping line and others, including INCHAPE, CONSULT, REDMAR, LETH, SPHINX, and LPH, also participated. The consensus was to hold such meetings regularly and engage with the executive leadership of shipping lines.
Source: SCA