The low water level of the Panama Canal, like a dark cloud, continues to weigh on the heads of shipping companies, which has a tangible impact on the operation of Hapag-Lloyd container ships. CEO Rolf Habben Jansen likened it to a "roadblock" that turned an otherwise smooth route into a twist and turn. "The main difference is that if you go through the Suez Canal, it takes more time, so you need more boats," Habben Jansen said of the Panama Canal drought, "which not only increases our operating costs, but also puts more pressure on our crews." "The problem of low water in the Panama Canal, like a beast lurking in the shadows, launched a silent attack on Hapag-Lloyd's container ships. Since the vessel could not operate at 100% load rate, the company had to take the initiative to recalibrate some services through the Suez Canal to meet this challenge. "We initially thought it would be temporary, but now it looks like it could actually last quite a long time, so the impact could be bigger than many people think. Habben Jansen said worriedly. If ships had to pass through the Suez Canal instead of taking a shortcut through the Panama Canal, the voyage would be significantly longer. This not only increases the operating costs of the vessel, but also puts more pressure on the crew. Therefore, it is not an easy decision for shipping companies to choose which canal to pass through.
However, for Hapag-Lloyd, they may soon be in demand for ships again. According to Habben Jansen, many ships will be scrapped in the coming years because a large proportion are ageing. At the same time, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) CII rules, which measure pollution from ships, will force shipping companies to slow down many ships in order to reduce pollution. In addition, according to Habben Jansen, the freight market is expected to grow next year. "I think we're going to see a very decent growth rate in the first half of 2024. There will be a decrease in the second half of the year, but overall, I still expect 3-4% growth. Habben Jansen said with confidence. In the face of this challenge, Hapag-Lloyd has shown a strong determination and a forward-looking vision. They not only see the difficulties in front of them, but also the opportunities in the future. As Habben Jansen puts it: "There are always difficulties and opportunities. I believe that as long as we face it bravely, we can always find a solution. ”