CMA CGM to Implement Black Sea War Risk Surcharge
The shipping firm will add a $35 per-unit fee to cargo moving through the region starting in November.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Transportation
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Starting November 9, 2026, CMA CGM will implement a new War Risk Surcharge for all shipments to and from countries in the Black Sea region. The move follows the designation of the Black Sea as a war risk zone by the Joint War Committee.
Why it matters
The surcharge reflects the deteriorating operational situation in the Black Sea, which has heightened risks for maritime logistics. Implementing this fee allows the carrier to manage the costs associated with navigating the volatile region.
CMA CGM will charge a flat fee of USD 35 per TEU on all affected cargo shipments. The pricing applies across the board for all freight moving to or from the Black Sea.
The players
CMA CGM
This French container transportation and shipping company is one of the largest shipping lines in the world.
Joint War Committee
This body represents the interests of the Lloyd's and International Underwriting Association markets and determines global war risk zones.
The details
This policy applies to all global cargo shipments, with a phased rollout based on the origin or destination of the goods. Operations involving the USA, US territories, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin American countries are subject to the surcharge starting December 1, 2026.
Timeline
September 16, 2026: Black Sea designated as a war risk zone.
November 9, 2026: Surcharge becomes effective for most regions.
December 1, 2026: Surcharge becomes effective for US, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin American shipments.
Market Landscape
This surcharge follows a pattern set by the Joint War Committee's official risk classification for the Black Sea. Carriers are increasingly using such specific fees to offset higher insurance and security costs caused by regional instability.
Retailers and businesses importing or exporting goods through the Black Sea will face increased shipping costs of $35 per TEU. These extra expenses may eventually be passed on to customers in the price of consumer goods.
The takeaway
Shippers should review their upcoming logistics schedules to account for the new tariff on Black Sea routes. Monitoring official carrier announcements remains the best way to track potential adjustments to these surcharges as regional conditions evolve.
Further reading
For additional context on shipping costs, visit the Transportation section.
More information
Find official pricing information on the CMA CGM basic freight price lookup portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by American Journal of Transportation | AJOT | 1-800-599-6358.
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