Bab el-Mandeb Disruptions Raise Jordan’s Trade Costs as Aqaba Traffic Grows

Disruptions in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait are increasing the cost of Jordan’s foreign trade and delaying the arrival of some shipments, even as cargo traffic through the port of Aqaba continues to grow.

The impact is being felt in shipping costs and delivery times rather than an interruption to the flow of goods. Supplies continue to move through Aqaba despite the difficulties affecting the maritime route.

Growth at the port has been driven by increased cargo handling, container traffic and imports. That activity points to continued demand for the port’s services amid the disruption.

The picture highlights the distinction between trade volumes and transport conditions: Aqaba is handling more traffic, but Jordan’s trade with overseas markets is becoming more expensive, with some shipments taking longer to arrive.