Expedition and freight forwarding solutions

BIMCO has introduced CO2TIME 2026, the first standard time charter developed specifically for the carriage of liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂).

The new form is designed for the fast-growing CCUS sector — carbon capture, utilisation and storage — where maritime logistics is becoming a critical part of the value chain.

From an operational perspective, CO2TIME 2026 adapts the traditional principles of gas shipping contracts to the specific requirements of CO₂ transportation. It addresses issues such as allocation of responsibilities, risk management, and vessel operation, helping reduce uncertainty for shipowners, charterers, and investors. In effect, it creates a more unified legal framework for an emerging market.

Its launch comes at a time when CCUS infrastructure is expanding rapidly, particularly in Europe and Asia, where transport chains are being built between capture sites and storage facilities. In this model, shipping serves as a key link, providing flexibility and scalability for the movement of captured CO₂.

More broadly, the introduction of a standardized contract suggests that the CO₂ shipping market is moving from concept to commercial implementation. It may also lower entry barriers for new participants and support the development of a dedicated fleet.

The Strait of Hormuz — one of the key arteries of global logistics — is partially resuming operations following a period of escalation in the region. As a result of negotiations mediated by Pakistan, the parties agreed to a two-week ceasefire.

Under the agreement, Iran confirmed its readiness to ensure safe passage for vessels through the strait. However, navigation will be conducted in coordination with Iran’s armed forces, and the strait remains under Iranian control. The reopening is conditional and temporary, with its continuation directly dependent on compliance with the ceasefire, leaving the situation still unstable.

French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM is developing multimodal solutions (sea–rail–road) to maintain supply chain resilience amid rising risks in the Strait of Hormuz.

The company is establishing alternative corridors via key regional entry points in the UAE — Khor Fakkan and Fujairah — as well as Sohar in Oman. From there, cargo is routed to major Gulf hubs such as Khalifa, Jebel Ali, and Sharjah using a mix of sea and trucking operations.

In addition, CMA CGM is leveraging a land corridor through Saudi Arabia, including Jeddah on the Red Sea, as an alternative to traditional routes. Ports in Oman are also being used to create a third logistics flow, with onward distribution across the region.

This setup allows the company to maintain connectivity between Asia and the Mediterranean while reducing direct reliance on the Strait of Hormuz.

From a market perspective, this reflects a broader shift: operators are moving from traditional ocean freight models toward hybrid, flexible logistics solutions — reducing geopolitical exposure and strengthening supply chain resilience.