French shipping group CMA CGM has announced new Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) for containerised shipments from Asia to Mauritius and Kenya, increasing freight costs on two key trade routes in the Indian Ocean and East Africa.
The new charges, announced on October 20, 2026, will apply from late October. The surcharge amounts vary according to the shipmentâs origin and destination, with rates reaching US$1,235 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU).
Surcharge for Mauritius Shipments
CMA CGM will introduce a surcharge of US$1,235 per TEU for all cargo moving from the Far East to Port Louis, Mauritius, effective October 28, 2026.
The carrier has not specified an expiry date for this surcharge in its latest notice. The charge applies to all cargo covered by the announcement, adding to the freight costs faced by importers and exporters using the route.
New Charges for Kenya-Bound Cargo
For shipments originating in South China and Hong Kong and destined for Mombasa, Kenya, CMA CGM will apply a surcharge of US$1,000 per TEU from October 25, 2026, until further notice.
The measure covers all cargo on the specified route. For shipments originating in China, the surcharge will be subject to the relevant filing requirements and may be incorporated into the ocean freight rate.
Additional Freight Charges May Apply
CMA CGM has advised customers that the new surcharges are separate from other applicable shipping costs. These may include bunker-related charges, terminal handling charges at origin and destination, and safety and security surcharges. Contingency and local charges may also apply, depending on the shipment.
Importers, exporters and freight forwarders should therefore review the complete rate structure before confirming bookings and calculating landed costs.
Impact on Shippers and Trade
The new charges are likely to increase container shipping expenses for businesses moving goods from Asia to Mauritius and Kenya. Importers may face higher landed costs, while exporters and logistics providers may need to reassess freight budgets and pricing agreements.
The announcements come amid continued adjustments in container freight pricing across international trade lanes. For shippers using these routes, checking the applicable origin, destination, effective date and container size will be essential to avoid unexpected costs.
Businesses are advised to confirm final rates directly with CMA CGM or their freight forwarders before booking shipments, particularly where other surcharges or local fees may apply.