Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) has formally revoked operating licences for seven CMA CGM vessels, accusing the carrier of breaching port regulations by unilaterally introducing an “Emergency Cost Recovery Surcharge” (ECRS). The move escalates a standoff between the port and liner operators, raising alarms for importers and exporters relying on Bangladesh’s busiest deep-sea gateway.
CMA CGM had published a notice that, effective from 26 October, it would levy new surcharges for cargo handled via Chittagong—ranging from $45 to $145 for dry containers, higher rates for out-of-gauge and hazardous goods. CPA responded by canceling the vessel licences, asserting that carriers are not permitted to impose extra charges outside the approved tariff structure.
Why Chittagong take this action?
The immediate trigger is the port authority’s recent tariff overhaul. From 15 October, CPA raised service and handling charges by an average of 41 %, which shipping lines cited as the basis for their surcharge proposals. CMA CGM’s ECRS was viewed by CPA as a unilateral cost shift that violated permit terms. By rescinding vessel licences, CPA is signaling enforcement of its regulatory prerogatives and pushing back against what it considers unchecked surcharge practices.
Impact on CMA CGM and trade flows
With licences revoked, the affected vessels are barred from calling at Chittagong, disrupting scheduled operations and cargo handling. CMA CGM later rolled back its local surcharge, requesting reinstatement of the permits. To mitigate losses, the carrier indicated it would shift the surcharge burden into a more general “Operation Cost Recovery” mechanism, rather than at the port level.
Logistics stakeholders warn of knock-on effects: unpredictable cost spikes, delays as ships reroute or wait for clearance, and bargaining tensions in contracts tied to Chittagong routes.
This clash may presage a new era of tension between global liners and sovereign ports in South Asia. If other ports follow Chittagong’s example, surcharge strategies could face more pushback. For businesses and traders, monitoring cargo costs and port licensing practices will be critical.
As Editor in Chief of The Maritime, I lead content development, interviews, and digital storytelling across our multimedia maritime platform. With over 10 years of experience in the maritime industry, I create and publish in-depth stories and video features that highlight key players, emerging trends, and operational realities across global shipping. Before launching The Maritime, I worked as a Vessel Operator at Imza Marine A.S., gaining hands-on commercial shipping and voyage operations experience. I also served as Marketing Communications Specialist at Gimas Ship Supply & Services, where I managed corporate communication, digital strategy, and industry outreach for shipowners and maritime clients. I hold a Master’s degree in Maritime Transportation Management from Istanbul Technical University and a Master’s degree in Publishing from Marmara University. My work is driven by the belief that the maritime world deserves strong, informed, and accessible media representation. I am committed to sharing the stories of maritime professionals and contributing to the sector’s visibility, knowledge exchange, and future development.
