Suez Canal Authority Increases Transit Fees for Ships Passing Through the Canal

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has announced an increase in transit fees for various types of ships passing through the Suez Canal. General tariffs for container ships, car carriers, chemical, crude oil and product tankers, and gas tankers will increase by 15%, while RoRo and bulk carriers will face a 5% fee increase. However, container ships traveling directly from northwestern Europe to the Far East will be exempt from the fee increase. This exemption will be in effect until June 30, 2024, although it is uncertain if there will be an extension after that date.

To be eligible for the exemption, ship operators must submit an application with specific details about the ship and cargo, including the port of origin and destination. The ship must also refrain from calling at any intermediate ports for commercial purposes during the journey from Northern Europe to the Far East. If the ship does make non-commercial calls at intermediate ports, a certificate explaining the reason must be provided.

Industry experts believe that the exemption for container ships is aimed at encouraging ships that currently travel via Africa’s Cape of Good Hope to return to using the shorter Suez Canal route. The increase in transit fees for other types of ships is likely to have an impact on the shipping industry and may lead to adjustments in routes and costs for various companies.

Source .