The world’s largest container line has followed its peers in ratcheting up its prices for shipping boxes in the Middle East amid growing hostility in the area.
Maersk Line announced the additional fee of $42 per container just weeks after two tankers were attacked in the region, in an incident which captured global headlines.
Rising costs
Maersk said the action was due to the unexpected and very significant increase in key factors impacting the cost of operating the Middle East Gulf.
It comes as Hapag-Lloyd introduced a similar fee, following Mediterranean Shipping Co and CMA CGM in announcing special charges.
Shipping is on high alert in the Strait of Hormuz following tanker attacks in the Middle East in recent weeks and the escalating situation after the seizure of a Russian owned VLCC in Gibraltar.
Marines yesterday seized the 301,000-dwt Grace 1 (built 1997), prompting a strong reaction from Iran that has threatened British ships in the Gulf.
13 May: Four tankers including Bahri and Thome ships targeted in attacks off Fujairah
14 May: US claims Iran used mines, which Iran denies
13 June: Two tankers operated by Frontline and BSM hit by torpedoes or mines off Iran
15 June: Front Altair towed from Iranian waters as crew leave Iran
19 June: Insurance premiums spike as UAE declared high-risk area
