- The Ocean Alliance members have unveiled their new east-west network, known as Day 8, for the year following the recent extension of their cooperation until 2032.
- However, details regarding specific services and port rotations were sparse due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding Red Sea transit.
- CMA CGM, one of the alliance partners, mentioned adjustments in response to the unstable situation in the Red Sea, resulting in a reduction in the overall number of services and deployed vessels compared to the previous year.
The Ocean Alliance, comprising CMA CGM, Cosco, OOCL, and Evergreen, has launched its new east-west network, known as Day 8, for the year following the recent extension of their cooperation until 2032. However, the announcement provided limited details regarding specific services and port rotations, indicating ongoing uncertainties surrounding Red Sea transit.
Impact of Red Sea Situation
The current instability in the Red Sea has prompted the rerouting of ships through the Cape of Good Hope, disrupting supply chains. Consequently, the Ocean Alliance members are adjusting their rotations and coordination to mitigate the effects of this disruption. As a result, the overall number of services and deployed vessels in the Day 8 network has been reduced compared to the previous year.
Reduction in Services and Deployed Vessels
CMA CGM revealed that the Day 8 network will utilize 321 vessels across 35 services, representing a reduction from the previous year’s proforma Day 7 notice, which outlined 40 services deploying 353 ships. Notably, there is a reduction in the Asia-North Europe and Asia-Middle East networks, reflecting the alliance’s response to the current challenges in maritime transit.
Suspension of Red Sea Services
Two Asia-Red Sea services remain unchanged in the Day 8 network however, CMA CGM announced that these services are suspended until further notice due to the instability in the region. This suspension underscores the impact of geopolitical factors on maritime operations and the need for adaptability in response to changing circumstances.
Response to Competitors’ Strategies
The launch of the Day 8 network comes amidst discussions about competitors’ strategies, such as Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd’s hub-and-spoke transshipment model under the forthcoming Gemini agreement. While detailed port rotations were not provided, industry analysts speculate on potential responses from the Ocean Alliance members in light of evolving market dynamics.
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Source The Loadstar
