Importers and clearing agents operating at Nigeria’s ports are expressing frustration over a recent increase in shipping charges by CMA CGM, a leading French shipping company. The agents warn that the rise in costs will place a heavier financial burden on businesses and consumers, making imported goods even more expensive in Nigerian markets.
The increase, which took effect on March 10, 2025, follows an adjustment in Port & Marine Fees by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). CMA CGM, in a message to importers, cited the NPA’s decision as the reason behind the tariff review.
CMA CGM’s New Charges
In the notice sent to importers, CMA CGM outlined the revised shipping fees, stating:
A 20-foot container will now cost N145,327.
A 40-foot container will cost N290,654.
A 20-foot reefer (refrigerated) container will also cost N145,327.
A 40-foot reefer container will now cost N290,654.
The company further advised importers with questions to reach out to its customer service team for further clarification.
Clearing Agents and Stakeholders Protest
The announcement has sparked outrage among clearing agents and trade stakeholders, who argue that the increased costs will significantly affect businesses and end-users.
Frank Ogunojemite, the National President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), stated that the increase would reduce Nigerians’ purchasing power and make business operations at ports more difficult.
According to Ogunojemite, higher shipping costs translate to higher costs for importers and exporters, who will eventually transfer these expenses to consumers. This, he said, will result in increased prices of goods and services in the country, affecting everyday Nigerians.
“Shipping and terminal charges are essential components of the logistics and supply chain management process. Any increase in these charges has widespread effects. Importers will have to deal with higher costs, and this will make Nigerian businesses less competitive in the global market. Profit margins will shrink, and businesses may have no choice but to cut down their workforce or even shut down operations due to rising costs,” Ogunojemite stated.
He also criticized the Nigerian Ports Authority, reminding them of their earlier assurance that the 15 percent increase in port fees would not lead to additional charges at the ports.
“NPA told us that the 15 percent hike will not cause extra charges at the ports, but now CMA CGM is blaming its price increment on the NPA’s decision. If this trend is not checked, other shipping companies may follow suit, making matters worse for importers and consumers,” he added.
Former ANLCA President Blames Government
Olayiwola Shittu, a former National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), blamed the Federal Government for allowing the situation to escalate. According to him, the NPA’s decision to raise charges inevitably led to CMA CGM’s price hike.
“The fault lies with the Federal Government. There is no way NPA will increase its charges by 15 percent and it will not affect shipping costs. CMA CGM has taken the lead in raising prices, and we should expect other shipping companies to follow. This will further worsen the cost of doing business at the ports,” he said.
Shittu warned that the rising cost of clearing cargo would discourage importation, leading to scarcity of goods and further inflation.
“With the way the economy is struggling, should we really be talking about increasing charges? It is unfortunate because it is the ordinary citizens who will suffer the most. The higher shipping charges will translate to higher costs in the market, making essential commodities even more expensive,” he lamented.
A Growing Challenge for Businesses and Consumers
The increase in shipping charges adds to the economic struggles facing Nigerian businesses. Importers already contend with high exchange rates, multiple taxation issues, and other bureaucratic bottlenecks at the ports. The rise in tariffs further increases the cost of doing business and may lead to reduced import volumes.
For consumers, the impact of rising shipping costs will be felt in everyday purchases. Nigeria depends heavily on imports, ranging from food products to industrial materials and household goods. Higher logistics costs mean that these products will become more expensive, worsening inflation in the country.
In recent years, Nigerians have battled inflation rates that have driven up the prices of goods and services. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that food inflation stood at over 30 percent in early 2025, with many struggling to afford basic necessities. With the added burden of increased shipping charges, consumers are likely to feel even more pressure on their finances.
Possible Ripple Effect on the Economy
Experts believe that if the Federal Government and regulatory agencies do not intervene, other shipping companies may increase their charges in response to the NPA’s tariff adjustments. This could lead to a chain reaction, making Nigerian ports one of the most expensive in the region.
A logistics consultant, Jide Oseni, highlighted that Nigeria already struggles with port inefficiencies, which drive up the cost of doing business.
“Our ports are not as competitive as those in neighboring countries like Ghana and Benin Republic. If shipping charges continue to rise, more businesses may begin using alternative ports in other countries, leading to a loss of revenue for Nigeria,” Oseni warned.
Additionally, the increased cost of clearing cargo at Nigerian ports could encourage smuggling through illegal border routes. When import duties and shipping costs become too expensive, some traders turn to informal channels, avoiding official ports entirely. This practice reduces government revenue and increases the risk of substandard or unsafe goods entering the country.
Calls for Government Intervention
With stakeholders raising concerns over the economic impact of CMA CGM’s increased charges, many are calling on the Nigerian government to take action. Industry players urge the Nigerian Ports Authority to review its recent tariff adjustments and work with shipping companies to ensure a fair pricing system that does not place excessive strain on businesses and consumers.
Some have suggested that the Federal Government should provide incentives for local production to reduce the country’s reliance on imports. Encouraging manufacturing within Nigeria could help cushion the effects of high shipping charges by making locally-produced alternatives available at lower costs.
Meanwhile, clearing agents and importers are appealing to lawmakers and trade unions to engage with the government and push for policies that will stabilize costs at the ports.
