The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has ordered an immediate suspension of recently approved shipping tariffs, directing all shipping lines and their agents to revert to previous rates. The move is aimed at ilising the nation’s port economy and easing rising costs for importers and freight operators.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Council cited concerns from port users over the timing and structure of the tariff increases, which were seen as potentially disruptive to the logistics value chain. The directive mandates all operators to apply the previous tariff regime immediately, warning that non-compliance would attract regulatory sanctions.
The decision comes after protests by customs brokers and freight forwarders, including a picket of Mediterranean Shipping Company, over rising shipping costs. Analysts have noted that escalating port charges had contributed to trade inefficiencies, higher cargo clearance costs, and inflationary pressures within the maritime sector.
The NSC emphasised that the suspension will remain in effect pending stakeholder consultations and internal regulatory reviews. A final decision on the tariff structure will be communicated following these engagements.
“The NSC remains resolute in its commitment to effective economic regulation, protection of cargo interests, and the promotion of an efficient and equitable maritime transport system,” the Council said, reaffirming its mandate to ensure competitiveness and transparency in the shipping industry.
Industry observers view the intervention as a critical step to maintain fairness in tariff-setting and safeguard the interests of port users while providing a structured approach to future adjustments in shipping costs.
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