Two of the world’s largest shipping companies, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co SA and CMA CGM SA, have suspended service to Mali over security and fueling concerns. 

The landlocked West African nation is serviced through ports in neighboring countries, with the last transport stage carried out by road. But the shippers maintain responsibility across the entire stretch, until delivery in Mali. 

In recent weeks, jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda have been targeting truckers, especially those carrying fuel into the country. This has caused a fuel shortage and prompted the shipping companies to suspend road transport, they said in separate statements this week.

Mali is a major African exporter of gold and cotton, and relies heavily on imports for everything from grain to equipment.