CMA CGM said it will reroute some of its vessels away from the Red Sea amid escalating attacks on ocean carriers in the waterway.
This comes as the ocean liner earlier announced a halt to all CMA CGM containerships in the area that are scheduled to pass through the Red Sea until further notice.
"The CMA CGM Group remains deeply concerned about the attacks on commercial vessels unfolding in the Red Sea Region. Over the past few days, we have taken preventive measures to ensure the safety of our crews and our vessels navigating these waters," CMA CGM said in an update on December 18.
"Accordingly, CMA CGM has decided, in accordance with clause 10 of its bill of lading, to reroute some of its vessels currently sailing to and from the US, to and from North Europe and to and from Asia or Indian Subcontinent via the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa," it added.
CMA CGM said all other CMA CGM containerships in the area that are scheduled to pass through the Red Sea have already been instructed to reach safe areas and pause their journey until further notice.
"CMA CGM is taking all necessary steps to preserve its transportation services for its customers," the notice added.