French shipping group CMA CGM has announced new port congestion surcharges for shipments destined for Tema in Ghana, Freetown in Sierra Leone and Monrovia in Liberia, citing current operational conditions at the three West African ports.
The new charges will take effect on November 1, 2026, based on the cargo loading date. For shipments originating in the United States and Brazil, the effective date will be November 15, 2026. The surcharges apply to dry cargo, refrigerated containers and special equipment, with rates varying according to the port of destination, cargo type and origin.
For shipments to Tema, Ghana, the congestion surcharge for dry containers is set at €200 or US$200 per container, with shipments from the Far East charged US$200 per TEU. Refrigerated cargo will attract a surcharge of €850 or US$1,000 per TEU.
For Freetown, Sierra Leone, the charges vary by origin. Shipments from Northern Europe, the Western Mediterranean, the Adriatic and North Africa will incur a surcharge of €350 per TEU. Cargo originating in North America, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea will be charged US$400 per TEU, while shipments from the Far East, Indian Subcontinent, Middle East Gulf and other specified regions will attract US$700 per TEU.
For Monrovia, Liberia, dry cargo originating in Northern Europe, the Western Mediterranean , the Adriatic and North Africa will incur a surcharge of €250 per container, while refrigerated cargo will be charged €600 per TEU. Shipments from Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East Gulf, the Americas and other specified regions will attract US$300 per container for dry cargo and US$700 per TEU for refrigerated cargo.
The additional charges will be collected alongside freight payments. CMA CGM has advised customers to account for the revised costs when preparing shipping budgets and confirming bookings for the affected destinations.
The announcement highlights continuing operational challenges at key West African gateways, where port congestion can affect vessel schedules, cargo handling and delivery times.
For exporters, importers and freight forwarders, the new surcharges are expected to increase shipping costs on affected trade lanes. Businesses moving cargo through Tema, Freetown and Monrovia should review the applicable rates based on shipment origin and container type to avoid unexpected freight expenses.
CMA CGM said the measures reflect the current operating situation at the three ports, with the charges designed to address the additional costs associated with congestion.