Global markets are seeing a noticeable rise in shipping prices and costs across various modes, as a result of the ongoing attacks by the Houthis in Yemen on commercial ships, exacerbating the crisis in the Red Sea region.

This increase is considered an exceptional phenomenon threatening the global supply chain, involving a two-front storm: the first relates to rising maritime and air shipping prices, and the second is disruption of cargo movement.

For example, maritime shipping prices have risen significantly within hours — the price of a 40-foot container from Shanghai to Britain has reached approximately USD 10,000, compared to USD 1,900 the previous week for a 20-foot container and USD 2,400 for a 40-foot container.

Reports indicate that shipping prices in the Middle East have more than doubled, signaling a new wave of inflation and rising commodity prices.

Global logistics managers face enormous challenges in securing sustainable shipping prices and providing the necessary guidance to the shipping community — including importers, exporters, and governments — to understand the reasons for these large cost increases.

Experts indicate that these increases are not limited to changes in supply and demand but also reflect fundamental shifts in the global shipping system and its impacts on global markets.

It is worth noting that global companies, including the Swedish furniture company "IKEA," face challenges in providing products and ensuring supply chain continuity due to current trade shifts. Although they do not own container ships, they cooperate with transport partners to manage shipping operations and ensure the safety of supply chain workers.