According to the Club, as of 6 January, Venezuela’s principal commercial ports remain open and operational under heightened security conditions. As informed, no general closure orders or blanket restrictions affecting commercial shipping have been issued. However, the situation remains dynamic, and further changes cannot be ruled out.
Since the start of 2026, U.S.–Venezuela relations have sharply escalated after the U.S. launched a military operation in 3 January, capturing President Nicolás Maduro. Since then, the U.S. maintains a military presence, as sanctions and maritime enforcement remain key tools in Washington’s strategy.
Port operations
- Port of Puerto Cabello is operating normally, with bulk carriers and container or general cargo vessels currently alongside and working without reported operational difficulties, and additional vessels awaiting their scheduled berthing at anchorage. No special measures restrict vessel traffic or impose differential treatment on foreign vessels.
- Port of La Guaira has been militarized and is currently subject to restricted access; however, port operations are continuing without significant delays. Enhanced security measures remain in place.
- Port and terminal complex of Jose (Anzoátegui State) is experiencing heightened security measures and limited operational activity, reportedly mainly due to the U.S. oil blockade affecting sanctioned tankers. Vessels associated with Chevron are loading without difficulty, and bulk cargo operations involving urea and petcoke are proceeding on a limited basis. Terminal operations remain secure.
- Port of Cumaná is operating normally.
- Port of Maracaibo remains open and available for bulk and containerized cargo operations, with no incidents reported.
- Bajo Grande oil terminal (primarily for Chevron loadings) has resumed export activities following a brief pause, with several vessels currently present. Security levels are significantly increased, but operations remain safe and stable.
Shipping operations
- Major operators continue serving Venezuela, subject to safety, security, and regulatory considerations.
- ZIM Integrated Shipping Services is monitoring developments and will continue regular service while prioritizing crew, vessel, and cargo safety.
- Maersk confirms operations remain active under security conditions and regulatory compliance; physical offices are temporarily closed, but customer service and operational support continue remotely.
