Global maritime routes face disruptions in Panama and Hormuz

Global maritime trade routes are facing significant operational and geopolitical disruptions. The Panama Canal has reduced its daily transits to 32 vessels as of September 15, 2026, due to severe drought conditions linked to El Niño. Precipitation in the canal basin was 34% below the historical average between May and August, prompting authorities to prepare for further restrictions in October, which could lower daily transits to an average of 29.5 vessels.

Simultaneously, tensions in the Middle East continue to impact shipping. The Strait of Hormuz has seen a reduction in the passage of vessels carrying raw materials following regional conflict. Additionally, threats to the Bab-el-Mandeb strait and the security of the Suez Canal access persist, forcing some vessels to bypass these routes via the Cape of Good Hope, further impacting global supply chains and increasing transit times.