Strait of Hormuz operations remain severely restricted (traffic is minimal, with many tankers at anchor); additional control measures are affecting transit through Hormuz; regional tensions continue to increase operational costs — fuel, war-risk insurance and container storage remain key drivers; adverse weather conditions across the Gulf are impacting logistics.
25.03
Iran and Israel continue exchanges amid mixed signals over potential negotiations
As reported by Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance, Washington and Tehran are delivering mixed signals regarding potential negotiations aimed at de-escalation. Iran is reported to have received a proposed peace framework from U.S. representatives, though Iranian media indicated that officials in Tehran have not confirmed progress on the initiative.
On 25.03, continued military activity was reported in the region. According to media sources, missile and drone incidents were recorded, including interceptions in parts of the Gulf region. Infrastructure disruptions were also reported, including an incident involving a fuel facility at an airport.
Sources: https://finance.yahoo.com/economy/policy/articles/us-awaits-response-peace-plan-080146084.html
25.03
Maersk introduces emergency surcharges and contingency measures
Maersk reported the introduction of an Emergency Freight Rate on cargo loading from or destined to ports in Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia (Dammam & Jubail), Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman (excluding Salalah). An Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS) has also been implemented.
Maersk implemented Emergency Freight rate to arrange alternative routing to final destination including finding potential storage solutions, additional charters and so forth. This fee includes transportation from temporary storage to final destination, when safe to complete the voyage.
Source: https://www.maersk.com/stay-ahead
25.03
Hapag-Lloyd reports increased operating costs due to the regional situation
Container shipping company Hapag-Lloyd faces additional costs of $40 million to $50 million a week due to the regional situation, its CEO was quoted as saying on 25.03, citing higher fuel costs, insurance premiums, and storage charges for containers. These additional costs may be reflected in customer pricing.
Source: https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/hapag-lloyd-faces-40-50-million-costs-weekly-due-iran-war/
25.03
Weather disruptions in the Gulf region impact logistics operations
Heavy rainfall in the Gulf region is causing localized delays, impacting transport and work organization, particularly in the UAE and Oman.
The UAE is experiencing unstable weather conditions until 28th March, accompanied by heavy rainfall occurring in successive waves. Sea conditions will be rough, particularly with cloud activity, in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.
Sources: https://www.thetraveler.org/severe-gulf-storm-disrupts-travel-in-uae-iran-and-oman/
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bzdr3ku-heavy-rainfall-unstable-weather-continue-across
26.03
Iran introduces additional control procedures for transit through the Strait of Hormuz
According to CNBC, citing Iranian sources, authorities in Tehran are considering mechanisms that would require vessels to comply with additional procedures in order to transit the Strait of Hormuz.
Industry sources, including Lloyd’s List, report that vessels may be required to submit documentation in advance, obtain clearance codes and follow designated transit corridors under supervision of local authorities
Sources: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/26/iran-plans-tolls-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz.html
https://www.lloydslist.com/LL1156720/Tehrans-toll-booth-system-is-now-controlling-Hormuz-traffic
About AsstrA
AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG is a multinational transportation and logistics service provider headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. For 30 years, AsstrA has been providing its customers with a full range of global 3PL services via road, rail, air, and sea transportation. The service portfolio includes warehouse logistics, customs clearance, cargo insurance, support for import-export operations, and project logistics.
AsstrA’s team employs more than 1,000 people in countries across Europe, the CIS, Asia, and the USA. The quality of services is confirmed by ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000, ISO 28000, GDP, and SQAS certifications.
AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG is a member of leading trade associations including FIATA, WCA, and TAPA.
