Global shipping lines CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd have suspended all bookings to and from Cuba until further notice, citing compliance concerns linked to a new US Executive Order issued on May 1.
CMA CGM stated it is “closely monitoring the situation” and will adapt operations in line with applicable regulations, while Hapag-Lloyd confirmed a halt on Cuban cargo bookings due to risks associated with the US order.
Industry sources warn the move could disrupt nearly 60% of Cuba’s shipping traffic by volume, dealing another severe blow to the island’s already strained economy amid ongoing fuel shortages caused by the US oil blockade.
Trade routes from China are expected to face the biggest impact, with Northern Europe and Mediterranean connections also likely to see significant disruptions as global shipping services to Cuba come under pressure.