According to informed traders, at least two Asian crude oil buyers are in discussions with Saudi Aramco regarding potential changes to shipping routes to bypass Africa, following attacks by Houthi forces on tankers in the Red Sea.

Traders indicated that refiners are considering alternative options to avoid the Mandeb Strait, a critical chokepoint at the southern end of the Red Sea. They mentioned that possible alternatives could include taking delivery of crude oil at Egypt's Mediterranean port of Sidi Kerir, rather than from Saudi Arabia's Red Sea hub at Yanbu.

They stated that if Asian buyers prefer to take delivery in the Mediterranean, one proposed solution involves Saudi Aramco transporting crude from Yanbu to Egypt's Red Sea port of Ain Sokhna, followed by northward shipment via pipeline. Another option is for buyers to take delivery at Yanbu and then arrange their own subsequent logistics within Egypt.

Traders noted that discussions are ongoing and no decisions have been finalized. Saudi Aramco declined to comment on the matter.

If crude shipments originally destined for Asia via the Red Sea and Mandeb Strait are rerouted, they may need to pass through Egypt and then around the southern tip of Africa, significantly extending the voyage. Traders suggested this could lengthen the journey by up to one month.