Global container shipping major CMA CGM Group has announced a new freight rate increase along with the introduction of a congestion surcharge for cargo moving through Port of Beira, citing operational challenges and growing port congestion.
The revised pricing measures are expected to apply to shipments routed through Beira, one of the key maritime gateways serving central Mozambique and several landlocked countries in southern Africa. According to the carrier, the surcharge has been introduced to offset delays and additional operational costs linked to congestion at the port.
Industry sources indicate that rising vessel waiting times and limited berth availability have affected cargo handling efficiency at Beira in recent weeks. Shipping lines operating in the region have been adjusting schedules and pricing structures to manage the operational impact.
The rate increase and congestion surcharge are part of CMA CGM’s broader pricing adjustments across several trade lanes as carriers respond to fluctuating market conditions, cost pressures and logistical disruptions affecting global shipping networks.
For exporters and importers using the Beira gateway, the new charges may lead to higher transportation costs, particularly for cargo moving between southern Africa and international markets. However, shipping companies say such surcharges are often necessary to maintain service reliability when port infrastructure faces operational constraints.
The Port of Beira plays a crucial role in regional trade, providing maritime access for cargo bound for countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi through its rail and road transport corridors.
CMA CGM said it will continue monitoring port conditions and market developments, and further adjustments could be made if operational challenges at Beira persist. Industry analysts note that congestion-related surcharges have become increasingly common as global shipping lines navigate periodic bottlenecks at key ports worldwide.