Attack intensifies global trade tensions
On September 29, 2025, a Dutch-flagged cargo ship was hit by a missile in the Gulf of Aden, a region close to Yemen. The attack, attributed to Houthi militants, left crew members injured and led to immediate evacuation. This event marks a further escalation in the pattern of insecurity that has already been recorded in strategic corridors such as the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Historical and geopolitical context
The Gulf of Aden connects the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, one of the world's most important trade routes. It is estimated that 10% of global trade passes through the region. In recent years, the area has been the focus of attacks and incidents of piracy, but since 2023 the situation has intensified with the involvement of the Houthis, who have expanded their range of action.
Local geopolitics aggravates the situation: the civil war in Yemen, coupled with regional rivalry between Middle Eastern powers, creates an environment of continuous uncertainty. For shipowners and shippers, this means the risk of delays, additional insurance costs and less predictable routes.
Immediate impacts on logistics
Soon after the news broke, maritime insurers announced revised premiums for vessels crossing the area. Shipowners began redirecting routes via the Cape of Good Hope, an alternative that can add up to 14 days to the voyage and raise the cost of bunker by thousands of dollars per container.
Spot freights on Asia-Europe routes soared the following week, with reports of increases of between 15% and 25% depending on the line. For European importers, this means reassessing safety stocks and reviewing supply contracts. Asian exporters, on the other hand, face the risk of delays in critical windows such as the end-of-year season.
Expert opinion
Analysts interviewed by AP News point out that the episode is yet another reminder of the structural vulnerability of global supply chains. “The concentration of flows in strategic bottlenecks like the Suez Canal makes the system extremely sensitive to localized shocks,” said a London-based maritime risk consultant.
Another expert added that the trend is towards “prolonged risk premiums”, which could remain even after the military situation stabilizes. In other words, even if attacks decrease, the additional costs could become permanent.
Prospects for shippers and importers
Logistics companies recommend continuous monitoring of the situation, the use of real-time visibility and greater flexibility in contracts. One suggested strategy is a balance between long-term contracts and space in spot negotiations, allowing for quick adjustments in the face of volatility.
In addition, critical chains - such as electronic components, automotive and consumer durables - need to plan for larger regional stocks and diversification of ports of entry.
Source: AP News