Vessels are currently unable to pass through the region safely due to the growing security threats in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz’s effective closure. Service flows along the Middle East corridors have been severely hampered as a result.

We have put emergency measures in place on all of the impacted routes, such as alternate routes and operational modifications, to protect cargo and ensure service continuity. Because of these limitations and rising operating expenses, an emergency freight rise has had to be implemented. Application scope Trade coverage includes the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Damam and Jubail), Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Oman (Sohar). Reservations Made, Cargo Traveling, and New Reservations For all ports other than Oman-Sohar, the freight paying party will be responsible for paying this increase starting on March 02, 2026. The hike will take effect for Oman-Sohar on March 3, 2026. This indicates that the application’s scope will be:

1. All reservations that have not yet been shipped
2. Cargo to and from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Damam and Jubail), Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman.
3. Iraq is already on the water but has not yet been loaded or discharged.
4. Unloaded shipments to and from the aforementioned locations applicable for all upcoming reservations starting on March 2, 2026 (with the exception of Oman, which is March 3, 2026). 
5. Cargo that is solely being transshipped through certain ports is not covered.
6. If the vessel’s last departure from any of the affected ports took place before to February 27, 2026.

Export cargo will not be subject to the Emergency Freight Increase. The final sailing date from the last impacted port will be the deciding factor if the ship calls several affected ports during its cycle.
The Carrier hereby advises that an increase in ocean freight prices will be levied under individual service contracts due to the continuous instability in the Strait of Hormuz. Clause 20 of the Carrier’s Bill of Lading, which allows the contract of transport to be modified or terminated under certain conditions, is the basis for this adjustment. The higher operational costs resulting from the closing of the Strait of Hormuz will be included in the amended freight levels for these shipments. The Carrier will put this increase into effect immediately in compliance with its contractual obligations under Clause 20. All cargo currently under the carrier’s control or custody will be subject to the updated ocean freight rates.

We are still keeping a close eye on the situation and are determined to keep you updated on any new developments. When necessary, your local Maersk representative can assist with alternate planning and talk about how it would affect your shipments.

We value your cooperation and understanding during this time of increased interruption.