CMA CGM introduces PSS on Asia–West Africa Trade

MARSEILLE : Global shipping major CMA CGM has announced the implementation of a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on cargo shipments from Asia to key West and Central African markets, effective March 23, 2026, until further notice.

The surcharge will apply to all cargo moving under short-term contracts from China to multiple destinations across the West Africa Central & South range. Under the revised pricing structure, shipments destined for Nigeria, Angola, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Namibia, Gabon, and Cameroon will attract a PSS of USD 715 per TEU.

Meanwhile, cargo flows from China to West African countries including Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Ghana, Togo, and Equatorial Guinea will be subject to a slightly higher surcharge of USD 740 per TEU.

The move comes amid tightening vessel capacity, sustained cargo demand, and ongoing operational challenges across global shipping networks. Industry observers note that trade lanes connecting Asia and Africa have witnessed increased pressure in recent months, driven by infrastructure bottlenecks, port congestion, and schedule disruptions.

By introducing this surcharge, CMA CGM aims to maintain service reliability and ensure continued equipment availability across the affected corridors. The PSS is expected to impact exporters and importers relying on short-term freight agreements, particularly in high-demand sectors such as consumer goods, industrial materials, and project cargo.

The carrier has advised customers to plan shipments in advance and coordinate closely with local representatives to mitigate potential cost impacts and secure space amid evolving market conditions.

This development reflects broader trends in the container shipping industry, where carriers continue to adjust pricing mechanisms in response to fluctuating demand patterns and operational constraints across global trade routes.