#Industry News
Freight Rate Hikes on African Shipping Routes: Leading Shipping Companies Dominate Market Trends
Industry News
In December 2025, Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd intensified freight rate increases on African routes.
Cost pressures are the main driver. Red Sea turmoil forces detours around the Cape, extending voyages by 10 - 15 days and adding USD 200,000 - 300,000 in fuel costs per trip. International oil prices are up 18% year-on-year. African ports like Durban and Beira face severe congestion, prompting surcharges.
MSC raised Far East-North Africa rates twice, adding USD 1,000 for 40-footers. CMA CGM set Asia-North Africa 40-foot FAK at USD 7,500 and added a USD 500/TEU charge for Guinea's Conakry. Maersk added a USD 1,000 peak surcharge for China-East Africa. Hapag-Lloyd will hike all African routes by USD 500/container from January 2026.
Export costs for power equipment and more have soared. Exporters should book space early and calculate rate hikes.
