Islamabad, May 9, 2025: Due to rising geopolitical tensions, major shipping lines are increasing freight charges for cargo to and from Pakistan.
CMA CGM has introduced an Emergency Operational Recovery Surcharge (EORS) of up to $800 per container, effective May 15, 2025, for most global routes.
Routes involving the US, Latin America, and Australia will face the surcharge starting June 6.
The surcharge affects shipments between Pakistan and Europe, the US, Africa, and Asia. A reduced fee of $300 per unit applies in some cases.
Shipping companies are also rerouting cargo via Colombo and Salalah due to the increased risk of conflict following a recent missile incident involving India.
Read More: Mari Energies Discovers Gas reservoirs in Sujawal Sindh
Some carriers have introduced a separate War Risk Premium, further pushing up costs.
Pakistan, in retaliation to Indian restrictions, has banned Indian-flagged vessels from accessing its ports. However, Indian-origin cargo in transit remains permitted under Reshipment on Board (RoB).
Despite these challenges, Karachi Port Trust reports normal operations.
However, industry officials expect continued cost hikes and delays as foreign shipping lines reconsider their routing strategies.
