German Exporters Seek New Trade Routes to Gulf

(MENAFN) German exporters aiming to access Gulf markets are beginning to reconsider the maritime pathways they have depended on for many years, as disturbances caused by the Iran war persist in elevating shipping and insurance expenses.

Hans-Ulrich Dicke, a project manager at the logistics firm Derda, explained that recent events have encouraged growing attention toward shipping goods via Syria. “Iran war is, of course, hampering all business with the Middle East. The container ships cannot cross the Strait of Hormuz anymore, so we're seeking alternative solutions on a daily basis,” he told a news agency.

According to Dicke, when the conflict initially erupted, logistics providers shifted operations toward the Port of Fujairah on the UAE’s eastern shoreline as a substitute route to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Nonetheless, he pointed out that congestion at Fujairah has steadily intensified.

He further noted that another attempt involved routing shipments through Jeddah, but this alternative proved impractical due to costs being four times higher.

Dicke added that air freight has not been a favored choice for many German exporters, prompting logistics companies to pursue urgent alternatives. As a result, he said, firms are now exploring the possibility of transporting goods through Syria en route to Gulf destinations.

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