Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has asked shipping lines to refrain from non-transparent and opportunistic pricing..
This follows complaints from exporters regarding levy of multiple ancillary charges that are deemed non-transparent.
In an advisory, the DGS on Monday asked shipping lines to refrain from predatory, non-transparent and opportunistic pricing practices, including levy of exorbitant charges thereby taking undue advantage of prevailing geopolitical issues.
Shipping lines have also been asked to adhere to fair trade practices and avoid the levy of charges that may give rise to disputes within the EXIM trade. They have also been asked to ensure that all applicable charges are communicated clearly and upfront to exporters, importers and other stakeholders.
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to disruption of trade lanes. Many shipping companies are avoiding the Hormuz Strait and levying surcharges and war risk premiums to transport cargo to/from ports in West Asia. This requires the companies to search for alternative ports to offload containers during the conflict period.
However concerns have been raised over the implementation and this has prompted the government to step in.
“The DGS has received representations from various stakeholders in the EXIM trade regarding the levy of multiple ancillary charges by shipping lines/carriers and their agents. These charges are perceived to be non-transparent and opportunistic in nature, resulting in an escalation of transaction costs in the logistics chain and appearing to take undue advantage of the prevailing geopolitical tensions and war-like situation,” the DGS said in its advisory.
Published on March 10, 2026
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