Mali Faces Supply Chain Crisis as Insecurity Strands Thousands of Shipping Containers

BAMAKO, Mali – A surge in insecurity along Mali’s primary trade route to Senegal is leaving over 4,000 empty shipping containers stranded within the country, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions and rising prices for consumers. The crisis threatens to exacerbate existing economic challenges in the landlocked nation, which relies heavily on the port of Dakar for imports.

The Malian Shippers’ Council, a body linked to the country’s transport ministry, warned this week that the backlog of containers is becoming a “major concern” for both national and regional supply chains. A critical shortage of empty containers at the port of Dakar is looming, potentially hindering future shipments to Mali and putting significant pressure on Malian businesses.

The root of the problem lies in a deteriorating security situation, particularly in the Kayes region bordering Senegal. Jihadist groups have increased attacks in recent months, making the journey for truck drivers increasingly perilous. Last Thursday, a devastating ambush killed at least a dozen truck drivers, despite being escorted by the army, highlighting the extreme risks involved.

“You can’t force people to take that risk,” said a Malian entrepreneur, who spoke to RFI on condition of anonymity, adding that he too has containers awaiting return to Dakar. He explained that transporters are unwilling to make the journey, even with security escorts, and empty containers are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of protection on return trips. The poor condition of the roads further compounds the danger, forcing trucks to travel slowly and increasing their exposure to attack.

The crisis is compounded by a JNIM-imposed embargo, initiated in early September, which has disrupted fuel supplies. Fuel shortages in the capital, Bamako, are also contributing to the standstill, with trucks unable to complete their journeys.

Beyond the immediate logistical challenges, the container backlog represents a significant financial burden for shipping giants like MSC and Hapag-Lloyd. With each container valued around €5,000, the 4,000 stranded units represent an estimated €20 million in tied-up assets. Economists warn that these increased logistics costs will inevitably be passed on to consumers, with nearly 70% of Mali’s imports flowing through Dakar.

The situation is particularly sensitive as the Muslim holy month of Ramadan approaches, a period of increased demand for goods. Mali’s transitional authorities have repeatedly stated their commitment to securing supplies and controlling price increases.

This isn’t a new issue. Just months ago, the situation was reversed, with full containers piling up at the port of Dakar, exceeding allowed storage limits. Mali successfully negotiated a waiver of storage penalties and a three-month deadline to clear the backlog, a feat achieved through direct intervention by then-Transport Minister Dembélé Madina Sissoko. As of today, the Shippers’ Council reports only 304 containers remain at Dakar, with a final deadline of February 24th for owners to retrieve them.

Shipping companies have remained largely silent on the issue, allowing Malian authorities to communicate their concerns, as discussed during a meeting in Dakar on January 20th. Previously, CMA CGM and MSC briefly suspended deliveries to Mali in November, citing insecurity and fuel shortages, but resumed services following negotiations with the transitional government – the details of which remain undisclosed.

The current crisis underscores the fragility of Mali’s supply chains and the urgent need for improved security along key trade routes. The situation also highlights the interconnectedness of regional economies and the potential for disruptions to have far-reaching consequences.

(This story is adapted from the original French version published by RFI, reported by David Baché.)