19 January 2024 (Lloyd's List) - CMA CGM is to divert one of its services that currently runs through the Suez Canal to a round Africa routing.

The Nemo service, which links northern Europe and the Mediterranean to Australia, is a run in a vessel sharing agreement with Mediterranean Shipping Co using 9,000 teu vessels.

"Due to recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea region, CMA CGM is taking contingency measures on several services usually crossing Suez Canal in order to ensure the safety of its vessels and their crews navigating these waters," the French carrier said in a customer advisory.

"In that respect, please note that Nemo Service will temporarily stop crossing Suez Canal and go via Cape of Good Hope, both ways."

The direct rerouted fixed-day weekly service will Europe with Reunion, Mauritius & Australia on the southbound voyage and Australia with Singapore, Colombo and Ennore on the return voyage.

Unlike other major carriers, CMA CGM has continued to route many of its vessels through the Red Sea, utilising protection from the French Navy.