Global container shipping giant CMA CGM has announced the introduction of an Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS) across its worldwide services following the renewed escalation of hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime trade corridors.
According to an official company notice dated Tuesday, the emergency surcharge will become effective from 1 August and will remain in force until further notice.
The company explained that the recent increase in geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz has triggered a sharp rise in global fuel prices. The decline in bunker fuel prices witnessed over recent weeks has now been completely reversed as uncertainty returned to the region. This has resulted in a substantial increase in bunker costs across multiple shipping routes and trades, directly affecting the operating costs of ocean transportation.
To offset these rising fuel expenses, CMA CGM will apply an Emergency Fuel Surcharge ranging from USD 65 to USD 165 per container, depending on the applicable trade lane and service.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global crude oil, petroleum products, and LNG exports. Any disruption or heightened security risk in this region quickly impacts international energy markets, leading to higher bunker fuel prices and increased shipping costs for carriers worldwide.
The latest surcharge highlights how rapidly geopolitical developments can influence global supply chains. Higher bunker costs not only affect shipping lines but may also increase freight rates, logistics expenses, and ultimately the cost of imported and exported goods across international markets.
For exporters, importers, freight forwarders, and logistics providers, the announcement serves as another reminder to closely monitor evolving geopolitical risks, bunker market movements, and carrier advisories while planning shipments over the coming weeks.