Egypt completes successful trial of Suez Canal extension

Egyptian authorities announced the successful passage of two ships through a newly constructed 10-kilometer extension of the Suez Canal, according to Reuters.

The trial took place over the weekend in a two-way section located on the southern end of the canal.

"This expansion will boost the canal's capacity by an additional 6 to 8 ships daily and enhance its ability to handle potential emergencies," the Suez Canal Authority said in a statement.

Construction of this section was expedited following a 2021 incident in which a container ship was grounded, blocking the canal for six days. As part of the upgrades, the southern two-way section of the canal was extended from 72 kilometers to 82 kilometers, with the existing canal also being widened.

The Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean with the Red Sea. It is the shortest shipping route between Asia and Europe. The World Economic Forum estimates over 20,000 vessels pass through the canal in an average year.

Connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, the Suez Canal serves as the shortest maritime route between Asia and Europe. According to the World Economic Forum, the canal facilitates the passage of over 20,000 vessels annually.

However, recent shipping activities have been disrupted by missile attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen, coinciding with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As a result, Egypt reported a significant decline in canal revenue, which fell by 60% to $7 billion in 2024.