Maersk announces PSS on Asia–South Asia trade lane

MUMBAI : A.P. Moller – Maersk has announced a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) for cargo moving from Asia to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, as rising volumes and seasonal pressures tighten capacity across the trade lane.

The surcharge will apply to shipments originating from selected Asian countries and destined for ports and inland locations in the three South Asian markets. The decision comes amid elevated booking activity, equipment imbalances, and constrained vessel space during the peak shipping cycle.

According to market participants, the PSS has been introduced to safeguard service reliability and optimize available capacity in response to increasing cargo flows. Strong demand for consumer goods, raw materials, and industrial cargo has contributed to space constraints on key routes serving the region.

Maersk stated that the surcharge will remain in effect for a limited period and will vary depending on container type, origin, and destination. Customers have been advised to consult updated tariff notifications and coordinate with local Maersk representatives for detailed implementation timelines and booking procedures.

Peak Season Surcharges are commonly implemented during periods of high freight demand to help carriers manage operational costs and maintain schedule integrity. The announcement reflects ongoing adjustments within the global container shipping market, where trade patterns continue to fluctuate.

Importers and exporters in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are expected to account for the additional surcharge in their supply chain planning as regional trade activity remains steady.