Licensed customs agents have expressed strong reservations over the proposed Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS) announced by global shipping giant CMA CGM, warning that the move could significantly increase the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports and place additional financial burdens on importers, exporters, manufacturers and ultimately consumers.
The proposed surcharge comes amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic maritime shipping routes. The waterway serves as a critical passage for global energy supplies and international cargo movement. Concerns over security risks and fluctuating fuel prices have prompted several international shipping operators to review their operational costs.
However, Nigerian customs agents argue that imposing an additional fuel surcharge at this time could have far-reaching economic consequences for businesses already grappling with rising logistics costs, foreign exchange challenges, port charges and inflation.
According to industry stakeholders, the proposed surcharge is expected to increase freight costs for cargo destined for Nigerian ports. Since freight charges form part of the overall landing cost of imported goods, any increase is likely to be transferred to importers, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and eventually consumers.
Customs agents noted that Nigeria’s import-dependent economy makes it particularly vulnerable to increases in international shipping costs. They warned that higher freight charges could further drive up the prices of food items, industrial raw materials, pharmaceuticals, machinery and other essential goods entering the country.
Industry operators also expressed concerns that the surcharge could reduce the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses that rely heavily on imported production inputs. Manufacturers already contend with high energy costs, unstable electricity supply, multiple taxation and foreign exchange volatility. Additional shipping expenses, they argued, would further increase production costs and reduce profitability.
Some customs brokers questioned whether introducing an emergency surcharge was justified, especially if global fuel prices stabilize or geopolitical tensions ease in the coming weeks. They urged shipping companies to maintain transparency regarding the methodology used in calculating such charges and to ensure that any temporary surcharge is reviewed regularly rather than becoming a permanent addition to freight costs.
Stakeholders also emphasized the need for greater consultation between international shipping lines, port users and relevant government agencies before implementing cost adjustments that directly affect trade.
According to the customs agents, collaborative dialogue would help ensure that operational realities are balanced with the economic interests of businesses and consumers.
Beyond the immediate financial implications, the proposed surcharge has also raised concerns about Nigeria’s trade competitiveness within the West African region.
Industry experts warned that increasing shipping costs could encourage some importers to divert cargo to neighboring ports where overall logistics expenses may be comparatively lower. Such cargo diversion could reduce cargo throughput at Nigerian seaports, affecting government revenue, terminal operators, freight forwarders and other businesses operating within the maritime value chain.
The development also comes at a time when Nigeria is working to improve port efficiency, attract greater investment into its maritime sector and strengthen its position as a regional logistics hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Maritime stakeholders believe that maintaining competitive shipping costs remains essential to achieving these objectives.
They further urged the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies to engage international shipping companies in constructive discussions aimed at protecting Nigeria’s trade interests while recognizing the operational challenges facing global carriers.
Industry observers acknowledge that shipping companies worldwide have experienced increased operating expenses due to volatile fuel markets, changing environmental regulations and geopolitical uncertainties. Nevertheless, they argue that balancing commercial sustainability with affordability remains critical, especially for developing economies where import costs have a direct impact on inflation and the cost of living.
As global trade continues to respond to evolving geopolitical developments, stakeholders say careful policy coordination and continuous engagement between shipping companies, government agencies and port users will be necessary to minimize disruptions and safeguard Nigeria’s maritime economy.
For many industry operators, the priority is ensuring that international logistics remain efficient, transparent and cost-effective, enabling businesses to remain competitive while protecting consumers from avoidable price increases.
The coming weeks are expected to determine whether further consultations will lead to a review of the proposed emergency fuel surcharge or whether shipping costs for Nigerian-bound cargo will rise in response to ongoing developments in the global energy market.
