In response to disruptions in the maritime fuel supply chain due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, MSC has announced an extension of the Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS) until April 30, 2026. This decision applies to routes from the Mediterranean and Black Sea to Asia and Africa, reflecting efforts to offset bunker procurement costs across its entire operating network.
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MSC officially announced the extension of the Emergency Fuel Surcharge until April 30, 2026. This decision was made amidst continued disruption in the global fuel market, stemming from geopolitical risks in the Middle East.
Supply Shortages and Operating Cost Pressures
According to MSC's statement, current security risks have driven up global marine fuel prices and altered the structure of regular supply allocations.
The direct consequence is a decrease in fuel supply at traditional supply points. This bottleneck not only creates challenges in procurement but also increases operating costs across the shipping company's entire network.
EFS Fee Structure
MSC confirmed that the EFS surcharge will remain unchanged from the previous period. This surcharge applies to all shipments originating from the Mediterranean region (including the Western Mediterranean, Adriatic Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, Greece, and Turkey) as well as the Black Sea region. Affected destinations include: the Indian subcontinent, the Red Sea, and East Africa.
Specific fees are stipulated by route segment and container type:
1. For goods originating from the Western Mediterranean and the Adriatic Sea:
● Red Sea route: US$100/TEU for dry cargo and US$150/TEU for refrigerated cargo.
● East Africa route: US$230/TEU (dry cargo) and US$350/TEU (refrigerated cargo).
● Indian subcontinent route: US$150/TEU (dry cargo) and US$220/TEU (refrigerated cargo).
2. For cargo originating from the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea:
● Red Sea route: US$75/TEU for dry cargo and US$115/TEU for refrigerated cargo.
● East African route: US$175/TEU (dry cargo) and US$260/TEU (refrigerated cargo).
● Indian Subcontinent route: US$110/TEU (dry cargo) and US$170/TEU (refrigerated cargo).
This extension follows the surcharge adjustment announcement issued on March 25, 2026. This is MSC's risk management and cost-compensation measure to address the volatility in supply and the structure of marine fuel prices in the market.