highseaOcean Freight Published 18h ago

CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd Halt Cuba Bookings Following New US Sanctions

CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd have announced an immediate suspension of all cargo bookings to and from Cuba. This decision by the major ocean carriers comes in response to a recent executive order issued by the United States, which has tightened existing sanctions against the island…

YLOAD News Desk

Published May 17, 2026 at 08:24 PM UTC

Source: gCaptain →

Major container shipping lines CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd have independently confirmed the immediate cessation of all booking services for cargo destined for or originating from Cuba. This operational change is a direct consequence of a new executive order recently enacted by the United States government, which further intensifies the long-standing economic sanctions against Cuba.

The specific details of the executive order, while not fully elaborated by the carriers, are understood to create a heightened risk and compliance burden for international companies engaging in trade with Cuba. Both carriers cited the need to adhere to international regulations and mitigate potential legal and financial repercussions as primary drivers for their decision.

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For freight forwarders and shippers, this development means a significant disruption to supply chains involving Cuba. The immediate suspension by two prominent carriers will drastically reduce available capacity for both imports and exports, likely leading to increased transit times and potentially higher costs for any remaining viable shipping options. Forwarders will need to explore alternative, albeit limited, carrier options or consider transshipment points that can navigate the new regulatory landscape, which may prove challenging given the broad nature of US sanctions. Shippers with existing contracts or immediate needs for Cuban trade will face considerable logistical hurdles and potential delays.

At present, neither carrier has indicated a timeline for resuming services, stating the suspension is "until further notice." The situation remains fluid, and further clarity on the executive order's full implications and any potential adjustments by other carriers will be closely monitored.

Entities mentioned

CMA CGM Hapag-LloydCubaUnited States