Shippers Hapag-Lloyd, CMA CGM Suspend Cuba Bookings After US Executive Order

Global shipping majors CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd have officially suspended all cargo bookings to and from Cuba, effective immediately following recent US executive order developments. This abrupt operational shift impacts major transit hubs, including the Port of Havana and Port of Mariel, forcing logistics providers to re-evaluate supply chain routes. The decision follows heightened scrutiny regarding US trade sanctions, creating significant uncertainty for merchant navy officers navigating Caribbean waters and managing vessel schedules amidst evolving international maritime trade policies.

The suspension highlights the critical intersection of geopolitical sanctions and maritime compliance, specifically regarding the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and the ISM Code requirements for safe operations. Compliance departments must ensure that vessel voyage planning adheres to the latest US Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) directives to avoid severe penalties. While not a direct violation of MARPOL Annex VI or SOLAS Chapter XI-2, the operational shift requires rigorous documentation updates and strict adherence to classification society protocols to maintain legal standing during port state control inspections.

Masters and navigating officers must immediately update voyage plans to exclude Cuban ports and ensure all electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) reflect these restricted zones. It is vital for these rank groups to maintain clear communication with charterers and shore-based management to avoid inadvertent entry into prohibited territorial waters. Failure to comply with these updated booking restrictions could lead to significant legal liabilities and potential detention of the vessel during future port calls.