09 June 2017

Ocean Carriers have now suspended all ocean freight bookings to and from Qatar

Effective June 9th, 2017

Ocean carriers have now suspended all ocean freight bookings to and from Qatar. This is due to the diplomatic standoff with its Arab neighbors- and the USA – that has had the effect of shutting down land, sea, and most air access to the country.

What this means – any freight you may have bound to/from Qatar via ocean cargo will be delayed – possibly for a long period of time. Mainfreight is keeping its clients informed of this fluid situation and – as development occur- we will keep you informed.

Indeed, a key partner, Maersk Line, issued this Client Advisory, which states, in part:

“…we are ceasing cargo acceptance between Qatar and the above countries with immediate effect. We have temporarily closed bookings for cargo from the rest of the world that transships over Jebel Ali to/from Qatar. We are working on alternative solutions to ensure movement of your cargo in compliance with above guidelines”.

There was no advance warning given of this standoff – and freight that is currently on the water or on its way is being rerouted as best as possible, given the diplomatic break in relations. Indeed, most cargo to/from Qatar ports- including cargo transshipping thru them – will no longer be accepted the Abu Dhabi Terminals and DP World Jebel Ali until this situation has eased.

As always, Mainfreight, Inc. thanks you for your business- and we will keep you informed of developments in this changing situation as they occur.