Denmark's A.P. Moller-Maersk, the Danish A.P.

Maersk released a statement that said, "The cascading effect of these disruptions extends well beyond the primary routes affected, causing congestion on alternative routes and hubs for transshipment essential to trade with Far East Asia and West Central Asia as well as Europe."

Maersk, among other shipping companies, has diverted ships around Africa's Cape of Good Hope to avoid attacks from Iran-aligned Houthi terrorists in the Red Sea since December. The longer voyage times have pushed freight rates up.

Maersk stated that Asian exports were more affected by the current situation than Asian imports. This is due to Asian countries' being major global exporters.

Maersk stated that ocean cargo demand is still strong globally. Air freight, such as a sea-air option, can be used to move time-sensitive goods quickly. (Reporting and editing by Anna Ringstrom, Louise Breusch Rasmussen)