COMMENT October 2026


A renewed focus on efficiency


A


t the time of writing, international shipping is severely disrupted once again. Daily cargo vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz dropped to single digits, while Saudi Arabia has also lost control of the Bab al- Mandab strait, the southern gateway to a trade route that links Asia and Europe. The Houthis, who now control


this strait, have stated that international vessels are free to move through it, although this remains to be seen. The conflict has had a significant impact on sea freight, as routes are elongated and fuel prices continue to soar. Naturally, there will be winners and losers. Some terminals will benefit from trade rerouting while others will suffer. However, the ability to load and unload these vessels quickly will also be even more highly prized. This is a perpetual global challenge for our industry and one that Latin America is currently embracing. Several terminals in the region delivered record-breaking container volumes in 2025 – we look at this vibrant part of the world in a dedicated feature. Our timing is good, as Colombia will also be the venue for TOC Americas 2026, which promises to be an exciting


show. We’ve compiled some of the highlights in our show preview. We also take a look at lifting attachments, an area that is proving just as innovative as the cranes they serve, with safety high on the agenda. And we talk in depth about both safety and productivity in our In the dock interview with Stephan Trauth, managing director of Mi-Jack Europe. Geopolitics continues to test the industry’s resilience; so far, it is passing with flying colours.


Phoebe Galbraith, editor


ii | October 2026 | www.hoistmagazine.com


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