Suez Canal Authority Signals Full Recovery as Major Shipping Lines Return in 2026

Following a challenging period of geopolitical tensions and rerouted traffic, the Suez Canal is showing strong signs of recovery in early 2026. The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) reported that October 2025 saw the highest monthly return of vessels since the crisis began, with major carriers like Maersk and CMA CGM leading the way in resuming transits.

In December 2025, the 23,000-TEU CMA CGM Jacques Saade successfully navigated the canal, marking the largest ship to use the route in two years. This was followed by the Maersk Denver in January 2026, signaling a growing confidence in the security and efficiency of the route. SCA Chairman Osama Rabie highlighted that the canal's readiness for full operation is now at its peak, supported by new services including ship repair, marine ambulance, and expanded fueling capabilities.

The operational phase of the Suez Canal expansion project in the Small Bitter Lakes, set to fully integrate into operations by early 2026, is expected to further enhance safety and capacity. While traffic remains below 2023 peaks, the SCA projects a full recovery of revenue and vessel numbers by the end of 2026, reinforcing the canal's status as the world's most critical maritime chokepoint.