MSC Temporarily Suspends Port Calls at Umm Qasr in Iraq

Following recent nationwide protests in Iraq which have severely affected the operational capacity of the port of Umm Qasr, all terminals have ceased operations by order of the authorities.

This has created uncertainty as to the berthing prospects of our vessels and has caused substantial and unpredictable schedule changes. This unfortunate situation makes it impossible to continue the carriage of your shipment to Umm Qasr as initially intended. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company will therefore divert shipments bound for Umm Qasr on board MSC SINDY, voyage XA943A, to alternative ports of discharge in the region in accordance with clause 19 of our Terms and Conditions of Carriage.

Accordingly, please note that we will conclude the carriage of your consignment in an alternative port and details will be provided in due course. Cargo will be at your disposal for pick up on your own account (clause 19.1(c)) after payment of due costs and local charges.

For further information and assistance, please contact your local MSC office.

We very much regret the inconvenience this may cause you and please rest assured we will continue to monitor the situation in Umm Qasr and throughout Iraq very closely.