A.P. Moller–Maersk (Maersk) and Hapag-Lloyd have announced a strategic change in the routing of one of their shared services under the Gemini Cooperation, with the IMX service set to transition through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The decision marks a cautious resumption of transits through the region, with all passages to be secured by naval assistance.
The IMX service, a key link connecting India and the Middle East with the Mediterranean, will see routing changes implemented from mid-February. The revised routing will apply to westbound sailings starting with the vessel Albert Maersk and to eastbound sailings commencing with Astrid Maersk.
Building on this move, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd indicated that, where feasible, similar routing adjustments may later be extended to the SE1 and SE3 services to also transit via the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The carriers said that further details will be communicated to customers and other stakeholders in due course. At present, no additional changes to the broader Gemini network related to the Red Sea are planned.
The carriers emphasized that the implementation will be managed carefully to minimize disruption to customers, while maintaining the Gemini Cooperation’s focus on industry-leading schedule reliability. Safety remains paramount, with the highest possible security measures to be undertaken to protect crew, vessels, and cargo.
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will continue to monitor the security situation in the Middle East closely. Any further adjustments to Gemini services will depend on sustained stability in the Red Sea region and the absence of escalation in regional conflicts.
The Gemini Cooperation, launched on 1 February 2025, represents a major operational collaboration between the two global carriers. Its network spans 29 shared mainline services and 29 shared shuttle services across key East–West trade routes, aiming to deliver enhanced reliability, connectivity, and efficiency for global container shipping customers.
