INTERVIEW

‘Rail won’t replace ocean freight’ amid Middle East chaos

A map of the Strait of Hormuz between Oman and Iran. Image: Shutterstock © AustralianCamera
A map of the Strait of Hormuz between Oman and Iran. Image: Shutterstock © AustralianCamera

The war launched by Israel and the US against Iran last month has completely shaken up the supply chain, especially with the recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz blocking hundreds of ships and thousands of sailors. With uncertainty looming over, the Europe-Asia supply chain is trying to find alternative solutions, including via rail. “Rail can be a credible ‘middle option’ for some goods, but it won’t replace ocean freight”, said Chris Clowes, associate director at supply chain and logistics consultancy SCALA.

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Author: Marco Raimondi

Marco Raimondi is an editor of RailFreight.com, the online magazine for rail freight professionals.

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