World Business Report Container ships changing course to the Red Sea
Jan 15, 2026
Laurie-Anne LaRocco, a global supply chain reporter for CNBC, shares insights on Maersk's strategic return to the Red Sea and its implications for global trade. She highlights safety concerns and potential shipping congestion around key events like the Lunar New Year. Meanwhile, Alp Toker, director of Netblocks, discusses the staggering $260 million economic impact of Iran's internet blackout, detailing the sectors affected and the risks of internet access for citizens amidst regime crackdowns.
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Supplier Hit By Red Sea Diversions
- Rachel Waring described long, uncertain delays after Red Sea route closures that sometimes lasted months rather than weeks.
- Her furniture business reduced reliance on Asian imports and faced higher future shipping prices and cash-flow strain.
Suez Reopening Eases Transit, Not Prices
- Laurie-Anne LaRocco explained the Suez route is the fastest and reduced transit saves working capital for shippers and buyers.
- She warned staggered re-routing is needed to avoid new congestion and that consumer prices won't drop quickly.
Stagger Ship Returns To Avoid Congestion
- Stagger vessel returns rather than resuming all Suez transits at once to prevent port congestion, Laurie-Anne advised.
- Use low-volume periods like Lunar New Year to rejigger routes and avoid severe delays.