Egypt’s Suez Canal recorded a strong rise in revenue in October, offering a sign of recovery for one of the world’s most important shipping routes. The Suez Canal Authority reported that revenue reached $724 million during the month, up 94 percent from $373 million in October 2025.
The canal also handled more ships during the period. A total of 1,490 vessels passed through the waterway in October, compared with 1,128 during the same month last year. This represents an increase of 32 percent. The total net tonnage also rose sharply, reaching 88 million tons compared with 47 million tons a year earlier.
The latest figures suggest that shipping activity is improving after years of pressure linked to security concerns in the Red Sea. Attacks by Houthi forces disrupted major shipping routes from late 2023. Many international shipping companies changed their routes and sent vessels around the Cape of Good Hope instead of using the Suez Canal.
Those changes reduced traffic and placed pressure on Egypt’s canal income. The waterway is a major source of foreign currency for the country and plays an important role in global trade. Its recovery is therefore important for Egypt’s economy as well as international shipping.
Suez Canal Authority Chairman Osama Rabie said the waterway had shown a clear improvement despite continuing regional challenges. He also expressed confidence that activity could rise further as major shipping companies return to the route.
The October figures are an encouraging sign for Egypt. However, the long-term recovery will depend on security conditions, shipping company decisions and the wider situation across the Red Sea. A steady return of major carriers could help the canal strengthen its role in global trade and improve its contribution to Egypt’s economy.
