On December 23rd 2025, The Suez Canal Authority made an important announcement - major shipping lines had resumed transit through this vital waterway for the first time since late 2023 - signaling what may be a turning point for global trade routes that had been disrupted since late 2023.
CMA CGM's Full Capacity Return with Mega Vessels
CMA CGM Jacques Saade, one of the world's largest container ships with 23,000 TEU capacity and measuring 400 meters long and 62 meters wide transited southbound through Morocco towards Malaysia as part of its southern convoy.
CMA CGM Adonis made its northbound voyage with Asia-Mediterranean cargo rotation. Admiral Ossama Rabie described these events as the full-capacity return of CMA CGM's fleet following successful trial transits earlier in December; starting January 2026 they plan on using this canal service for their India-US INDAMEX service.
Rabie attributes this achievement to SCAs successful marketing initiatives and the relative stability created since the October 10, 2025, Gaza ceasefire, when Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in Red Sea have decreased.
Maersk Launches Graduated Resumption Plan
Maersk Group made its comeback official with the arrival of its 318-meter vessel Maersk Sebarok carrying 82,000 gross tonnes, sailing southbound from Salalah, Oman via Bab al-Mandab Strait toward New Jersey following signing a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) agreement with SCA.
Maersk's approach differs significantly from that of CMA CGM's full dedication, authorizing transits on an individual basis using real-time intelligence and potentially naval escorts as supporting evidence. Their respective actions should encourage other lines to resume Red Sea voyages.
SCA Outlook and Economic Impact.
Admiral Rabie predicted gradual improvements in canal traffic throughout 2026, with volumes gradually returning to normal by the second half. Recent SCA data shows a 17.5% year-on-year revenue increase by late 2025 after experiencing disruptions led to projections for an $8 billion financial year in 2025/26 fiscal year.
These developments highlight the strategic significance of canals, with Inchcape Shipping Services promising ongoing support for real-time operational updates across maritime corridors.
Military Ship Rumors deny allegations.
On December 25 and 26 2025, the Suez Canal Economic Zone Authority and SCA denied social media reports of military ships docking at Port Said or carrying military equipment, affirming normal commercial operations.
CMA CGM and Maersk's return to the Suez route reflects increasing trust in its benefits, potentially altering global supply chains by bypassing Cape of Good Hope detours.