Supply chains braced for “one of the biggest disruptions to global trade” in years

After six days the Ever Given is on the move, although the blockage of the Suez Canal means that container supply chains, which were already strained by port congestion and equipment shortages, will face disruption in the weeks and months ahead.

Estimates of how long it will take to clear the current backlog of 300 vessels at the Suez Canal range from four days to six days or more.

All three shipping alliances have diverted vessels via the Cape of Good Hope, a journey which can take up to an additional ten days, while adding fuel costs.