Some foreign shipping lines have introduced what is now called Red Sea Charges following the re-routing of several vessels away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal region due to attacks on ships by Houthi rebels.
Recall that Nigerian Tribune had exclusively reported that Nigerian importers may pay more charges following the shunning of the Red Sea and Suez Canal routes by many shipping lines after two ships were attacked by Houthi rebels.
In a statement issued on Thursday, leading French shipping line, CMA-CGM said importers have to pay for the re-routing of several of its vessels from the Red Sea through the Cape of Good Hope.
According to CMA-CGM, “In continued efforts to ensure the safety of our crew, vessels, and your cargo amid the ongoing developments in the Red Sea region, we would like to provide you with important information regarding the re-routing of several CMA CGM vessels from their intended route through the Cape of Good Hope.
“As highlighted in our previous Customer Advisory, the re-routing of these vessels is a precautionary measure taken to navigate away from potentially unsafe areas. This decision is in line with Clause 10 of our bill of lading, and while we understand it may impact your logistics and supply chain operations, it is a necessary step which comes with a cost.
“Accordingly, we hereby inform you that, effective immediately and until further notice, a RED SEA charge will apply to all cargo to and from Red Sea ports unless you decide to accomplish the Bill of Lading at the designated hub ports.
“The charges are as follows: USD 1575 per 20’ DRY; USD 2700 per 40′ DRY; USD 3000 per REEFER Container & special equipment.
“From/To Jeddah, Port of Neom, Djibouti, Aden, Hodeidah, Port Sudan, Massawa, Berbera, Aqaba, Sokhna.
“Date of application: December the 20th 2023 for cargo on board or to be loaded / discharged to / from Red Sea.
“We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation during these unprecedented circumstances. Rest assured, CMA CGM is committed to mitigating the impact on your shipments and ensuring the safety of all involved.
“Please visit our website cma-cgm.com to ensure you do not miss any of our notices. Should you have any questions, please contact your usual sales representative.”
Checks by the Nigerian Tribune also confirmed that other shipping lines like Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Maersk and others are already considering the introduction of new charges to cover the cost of re-routing vessels away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal.
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