Israeli container shipping company ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (ZIM) sees increasing likelihood of resuming operations through the Suez Canal and Red Sea routes soon. During the Q3 2025 earnings call, CEO Eli Glickman confirmed in response to analysts’ questions about returning to the Red Sea and potential market share expansion in Asia-Europe trade: "The answer is yes. We are currently awaiting insurance approval to resume transit via the Red Sea, Suez Canal, and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. We look forward to abandoning the longer Cape of Good Hope detour for shorter routes as soon as possible."

ZIM was among the first carriers to divert via the Cape of Good Hope in November 2023 after Houthi attacks on Israel-linked vessels in the Red Sea, which escalated in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Earlier in the call, Glickman noted that while the current Gaza ceasefire is encouraging, its sustainability remains uncertain, and the company is closely monitoring developments. "That said, we believe the possibility of returning to the Suez Canal in the near term appears increasingly likely," he added.

From a commercial perspective, Glickman highlighted that resuming Suez transits presents both opportunities—such as improved fleet efficiency and cost savings—and risks, including added capacity pressuring freight rates further. This comes as the container shipping industry already faces a record orderbook equivalent to 31% of the existing fleet.

Xavier Destriau, ZIM’s EVP and CFO, pointed out that while 2026 vessel deliveries are expected to slow compared to this year, over 3 million TEU of new capacity is projected for 2027, surpassing 2024’s record levels. "In 2026, the industry’s return to the Suez Canal will significantly boost effective capacity after an adjustment period, potentially worsening supply-demand imbalances," he cautioned.

ZIM has been returning chartered vessels upon lease expirations. Destriau stated that 22 chartered ships (totaling 5,600 TEU) have been returned this year based on the company’s cautious outlook, with 17 more (55,000 TEU) set to be redelivered in 2026. "This flexibility allows us to adjust capacity in line with market conditions or strategic shifts," he explained.

For Q3 2025, ZIM reported net income of $123 million, down sharply from $1.13 billion YoY. Revenue fell 36% to $1.78 billion, closely tracking a 35% decline in average revenue per TEU to $1,602.