Mali's Cargo Flows Resume - But 

Not Without a Rethink

After weeks of uncertainty, major shipping lines MSC and CMA CGM have begun resuming cargo services to Mali following their suspensions in early November 2025, a move that brings relief to traders who faced mounting delays and rising costs. MSC had halted bookings due to fuel shortages and security concerns along key corridors, while CMA CGM briefly paused operations before later restoring limited services. With both companies now gradually returning to normal activity, the focus is shifting from short-term disruption to longer-term resilience.

The brief shutdown was a stark reminder of how quickly the system can grind to a halt when a single link fails. Fuel disruptions, blocked routes and safety concerns created a perfect storm that left carriers with little choice but to pause bookings. As services return, however, shipping companies and Malian authorities are emphasising the need to reorganise logistics flows to prevent similar setbacks in the future.

Local stakeholders are calling for a more coordinated approach—one that strengthens inland transport corridors, improves storage capacity and ensures greater predictability in fuel supplies. The past weeks revealed the risks of relying too heavily on a few vulnerable routes, and the renewed dialogue between port authorities, transport operators and the government suggests that a more flexible, diversified system is now a priority.

For Mali, the resumption of maritime freight is an important step toward stabilising commercial activity, but it also marks the start of a broader rethink. The episode has made clear that resilience can no longer be an afterthought. If the country wants to safeguard the flow of essential goods and maintain investor confidence, reorganising its logistics architecture is not just advisable—it’s indispensable.

With shipping lines back in motion, Mali has an opportunity to build a supply chain that is not only functional in calm times but robust enough to withstand disruption.

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