Global shipping giant CMA CGM has announced a new Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS) on cargo bound for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, as worsening congestion at the West African port continues to disrupt vessel operations and supply chain movements.
The French carrier said the surcharge will take effect from 8 June 2026 for cargo originating from all regions except North and Latin America, while shipments from North and Latin America will attract the surcharge from 22 June 2026.
According to the company, the surcharge will apply to all cargo types, subject to space availability, and will be payable alongside normal freight charges.
CMA CGM fixed the surcharge at USD 300, EUR 250 or GBP 225 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU).
The move comes amid persistent operational bottlenecks at the Port of Abidjan, one of West Africa’s busiest maritime gateways and a critical hub for regional trade.
The port has in recent months grappled with heavy container volumes, berth delays and equipment constraints, resulting in extended vessel waiting times and mounting pressure on shipping lines operating in the region.
Industry stakeholders say congestion at the Ivorian port has been worsened by increasing import volumes, regional transhipment demand and infrastructure limitations, despite ongoing expansion efforts aimed at boosting the port’s handling capacity.
Abidjan serves as a major trade corridor for several landlocked West African countries, including Mali and Burkina Faso, making disruptions at the port a significant concern for regional commerce and supply chains.
Shipping analysts note that congestion surcharges have become a common strategy among carriers seeking to offset rising operational costs linked to delays, longer vessel turnaround times and schedule disruptions at overcrowded ports.