In brief
On Monday CMA CGM announced a war‑risk surcharge of USD 35 per 20‑foot container and USD 70 per 40‑foot container for cargo routed through the Black Sea, with effect for voyages to Constanta, Poti, Varna and Burgas. The surcharge will begin applying from December 1, 2026 to shipments heading to the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Latin America. The move follows the Black Sea’s inclusion on the Joint War Committee’s war‑risk list and recent drone attacks on merchant vessels in the region.
On Monday, French shipping line CMA CGM announced a new war‑risk surcharge for containers routed through the Black Sea, charging USD 35 per 20‑foot unit and USD 70 per 40‑foot unit. The fee will take effect immediately for voyages to ports such as Constanta, Poti, Varna and Burgas.
From December 1, 2026, the same surcharge will apply to shipments destined for the United States, Australia, New Zealand and countries in Latin America that are served by the company, subject to the relevant regulatory requirements.
Scope of Surcharge
The announcement comes after the maritime area was added to the Joint War Committee’s list of war‑risk zones on September 16. CMA CGM said the decision was prompted by the deterioration of the operational situation in the Black Sea over recent months. The company noted that the surcharge covers all types of cargo, regardless of the shipping container’s contents.
Merchant vessels have come under drone attack in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea on several occasions since October 6, according to the company’s statement. These incidents are cited as a key factor in the decision to introduce the war‑risk surcharge.
CMA CGM emphasized that the surcharge is intended to compensate for the additional risk exposure associated with operating in the disputed area. The company said that shipments to overseas markets will be subject to the surcharge only once regulatory approvals are obtained, highlighting the need for compliance with international maritime safety regulations.
Uncertainties remain regarding the long‑term impact on shipping costs, potential further regulatory changes, and the trajectory of drone attacks in the region. The company and regulators have not yet indicated whether the surcharge could be adjusted if conditions improve or if additional security measures are implemented in the area.
