Maersk halts new cargo bookings to Berbera Port, citing scheduling changes, while maintaining services to Djibouti, Mogadishu, and Mombasa to support regional trade
HARGEISA, April 21, 2026 — Global shipping giant Maersk has announced a temporary suspension of new cargo bookings to and from the Port of Berbera, a key logistics hub in the Horn of Africa, citing scheduling adjustments that could disrupt regional trade flows.
In a customer notice issued April 20, the Danish carrier said the halt would take effect immediately and apply to all new shipments involving Port of Berbera. The company emphasized, however, that cargo already in transit would continue to its final destinations without interruption.
“We understand that you may have relied on our call to Berbera for local gateway cargo as well as for connectivity to neighbouring markets such as Ethiopia,” the company said, acknowledging the port’s growing importance as a trade corridor into the Ethiopian hinterland.
Regional logistics recalibrated
During the suspension, Maersk said it would maintain operations through alternative regional ports, including Djibouti, Mogadishu, and Mombasa, to preserve supply chain continuity across East Africa.
The company advised customers seeking access to Berbera to consult their representatives about inland transport options, signaling a shift toward multimodal logistics solutions while maritime calls remain paused.
“We encourage you to reach out to your customer representative … to discuss landside options if you need connections to Berbera,” the notice said, adding that further updates would be provided as the situation evolves.
Strategic implications
The temporary suspension underscores the operational sensitivities surrounding Berbera, which has emerged in recent years as a strategic alternative to congested regional ports and a critical gateway for landlocked Ethiopia.
While Maersk did not elaborate on the specific nature of the scheduling changes, industry analysts say such decisions can reflect a range of factors, including fleet redeployment, shifting trade volumes, or broader geopolitical considerations affecting shipping lanes.
The move comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the Horn of Africa, where infrastructure, port access, and maritime routes are increasingly intertwined with diplomatic developments and regional competition.
Supply chain continuity concerns
For businesses reliant on Berbera’s corridor, particularly those serving Ethiopian markets, the suspension may introduce short-term disruptions and increased costs as cargo is rerouted through alternative ports.
Still, Maersk sought to reassure clients that its broader East African network remains intact. “Our teams are on hand to support with your planning,” the company said, emphasizing continued service availability and customer support during the transition.
The company did not provide a timeline for when bookings to Berbera might resume.
