Maersk recently announced it will discontinue direct cargo shipments between South Africa and the United States starting October 1, 2025, due to operational restructuring and global supply chain realignments[1]. Exports from South Africa will now be rerouted via European transshipment hubs, leading to longer shipping times, increased transportation costs, and higher operational surcharges for South African exporters[1]. This move, communicated directly to customers, is expected to substantially impact time-sensitive sectors like fresh fruit and has raised concerns within South Africa’s export sector about global competitiveness and the reliability of US trade links[1][5].
The Maritime Business Chamber (MBC) expressed concern that Maersk’s withdrawal will leave only one direct shipping line between South Africa and the US, emphasizing the urgent need for South Africa to develop its own shipping lines to mitigate growing logistics vulnerabilities for exporters of perishable goods[5].
Operationally, Maersk reports a generally positive environment within South Africa: terminal congestion has eased, minimal waiting times are being recorded, depot capacity is plentiful, and equipment availability is improving[2][4]. The Port of Durban, in particular, has seen a reduction in congestion, leading to more consistent vessel schedules. However, some inland and landside infrastructure remains under pressure due to increasing throughput as businesses ramp up for the peak season[4].
Maersk is also adjusting capacity on the Far East–South Africa trade lane by introducing larger vessels, and customers are advised to anticipate potential weather-related disruptions and book early to ensure access to shipment space[4]. Updates have included a notice of increased surcharges on South African routes earlier this year[6] and peak season surcharge announcements[7].
On the infrastructure front, Maersk is expanding its presence in South Africa through logistics real estate, with the Belcon Logistics Park set to become part of a three-cold storage facility network scheduled to be operational before the end of 2025, aiming to support southern Africa’s growing cold chain export market[3][7].
References
- [1] Shipping giant, Maersk ends direct US trade route to Africa’s largest …
- [2] Southern Africa Terminal and Service Update Week 05
- [3] South African exporters get a sneak peek into upcoming Maersk facility
- [4] IMEA Maersk Market Update – July 2025
- [5] SA needs to develop its own shipping lines: MBC – SABC News
- [6] South Africa Surcharge Increase
- [7] South africa | News & Advisories – Maersk