Maersk has announced an increase in its Emergency Contingency Surcharge (ECS) for dry cargo moving from the Middle East to Pakistan, with the revised charges taking effect from 1 September 2026.
The surcharge adjustment comes as shipping conditions in the Middle East remain challenging, with carriers continuing to manage higher operational and contingency costs amid ongoing regional disruptions.
The revised ECS will apply to eligible dry cargo shipments from Middle Eastern origins to Pakistan. The increase is expected to raise overall transportation costs for shippers using the affected trade lane.
Maersk has been making several surcharge adjustments across its network in recent months as it responds to changing market conditions and operational risks. The carrier has also revised ECS levels on other corridors, including shipments from the Indian Subcontinent to Europe.
The latest increase is likely to add further cost pressure for Pakistan-bound cargo from the Middle East, particularly for exporters and importers operating on tight freight margins.