China has summoned executives from Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to protest their steep freight charges and route suspensions stemming from the war in Iran, which has paralyzed Gulf trade. The transport ministry expressed concerns about supply chain disruptions and trade flow stability after the shipping groups added emergency fees ($1,800-$3,000 per container) and halted most Middle East sailings. China, the world's largest exporter, sent over $30 billion in goods to the region last year, making it a critical trade partner amid rising tensions with the West.

The conflict has forced carriers to reroute shipments and incur higher costs, mirroring similar government interventions during the pandemic. Both companies suspended most Gulf traffic due to the volatile situation but continue limited service to Saudi Arabia and Oman via alternative overland routes. Maersk and MSC declined to comment.