The port of Cape Town has reported a 112% increase in diverted vessels as global shipping lines reroute ships around the Cape of Good Hope
Image: File
The port of Cape Town has reported a 112% increase in diverted vessels as global shipping lines reroute ships around the Cape of Good Hope due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
This comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains a high-risk route, with the conflict disrupting global oil and shipping traffic, forcing vessels to take the longer Cape of Good Hope route and adding significant delays and costs for exporters.
Major shipping lines, including Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, have also structurally rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the escalating conflict the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the increase in diverted vessels has caused delays at the Port of Cape Town and is affecting Western Cape exporters.
"The Cape Chamber can confirm ongoing cargo disruptions at Cape Town Port, with some Cape Town shipments to or transiting the Middle East on hold until further notice. On Wednesday a major international shipping line issued instructions to Cape Town shipping agents to remove and unpack their containers already packed for export at the Cape Town Container Terminal."
"This shift has resulted in a 112% surge in Cape diversions as of early March 2026, adding roughly 10–14 days to transit times and significantly increasing fuel and insurance costs for global trade".
Agri SA has also warned that the conflict comes at a critical time for the Western Cape’s agricultural sector, which is entering its main grain planting season.
“The immediate challenge now facing exporters is what happens to containers that are already on the water or in transit to these markets" EWC chairperson Terry Gale said.
Lesego Majatladi, Vice Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Portfolio, said that while disrupted shipping and air routes could affect long-haul travel, the Western Cape could also benefit
"He says disrupted routes may cause travellers to reconsider long-haul trips, particularly as Dubai serves as a global interchange. However, the Western Cape may also benefit from being viewed as a stable and safe destination"
Vanessa Davidson, Vice Chairperson of the Oceans Economy Portfolio, says that the risk is no longer theoretical.
"One marine manufacturing company has already cancelled attendance at the Korean International Boat Show due to airspace closures," shesaid.
IOL Business
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za