CMA CGM Nigeria Shipping Limited has announced the removal of the controversial container deposit requirement, which its parent company and French shipping giant; CMACGM recently slammed on all cargoes destined for Nigeria. The fresh charge was a $100 surcharge on twenty-foot equivalent units of Nigeria-bound container cargoes.
However, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has acknowledged the decision of CMA CGM Nigeria Shipping Limited to officially remove the container deposit requirement for all new bookings effective 21st May 2025.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NSC attributed the development to sustained stakeholder engagements and is a significant step toward promoting a more efficient, customer-friendly shipping environment in Nigeria.
The NSC commends this initiative and views it as a milestone in ongoing efforts to reduce trade barriers, enhance compliance, and boost competitiveness at Nigerian ports.
This policy shift is expected to ease the financial burden on shippers, reduce disputes over refunds, and further drive reforms across the maritime sector.
The removal of the container deposit aligns with industry-wide calls for more transparent and cost-effective practices within the port and logistics value chain.
In a formal communication to the Council, CMA CGM attributed the decision to valuable customer feedback received over the years. They emphasized that the move is aimed at streamlining operational procedures, simplifying logistics, and improving service delivery.
In the light of the CMA CGM action, the Council encouraged other shipping lines operating in Nigeria to adopt similar customer-focused policies in the interest of fairness, transparency, and improved service efficiency
Shipping Position Daily recalls that, a notice posted on the company’s site dated May 5, 2025, had indicated that the surcharge is applicable on short-term contracts.
“In a continued effort to provide our customers with reliable and efficient services, CMA/CGM informs its customers of the following updated Peak Season Surcharge. From May 1, 2025, until further notice: Origin range: From China and Hong Kong & Macau SAR, destination range, Nigeria, cargo: dry only, amount $100 per TEU, applicable on short-term contracts,” the notice read in part.
