Export shipments from India have started moving once again through the Red Sea corridor, marking a cautious return to normal shipping operations after months of disruption caused by regional unrest. The development was confirmed on Tuesday by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).The key maritime route, which includes the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait connecting the Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean, had witnessed severe security concerns throughout the past year due to repeated attacks by Houthi militants based in Yemen. These threats had forced shipping lines to reroute vessels via the Cape of Good Hope, significantly extending travel times and raising logistics costs.“Consignments are gradually going through this important sea route. It will cut transportation time,” said FIEO Director General Ajay Sahai. He added that shipping costs have stabilised recently, partly due to a decline in vessel demand from China.The Red Sea corridor is a critical lifeline for Indian trade, carrying nearly 80 per cent of the country’s exports to Europe and a substantial share of shipments to the US. Together, these two regions account for 34 per cent of India’s total exports.Globally, the Red Sea is vital for commerce, facilitating 30 per cent of container movement and 12 per cent of international trade. At the height of the crisis, nearly 95 per cent of vessels had detoured around Africa, adding 4,000 to 6,000 nautical miles and delaying shipments by 14 to 20 days.The resumption of cargo movement through the Red Sea is expected to improve delivery timelines, reduce freight costs, and provide relief to Indian exporters navigating uncertain global trade conditions.
