Shippers’ Council Orders Immediate Freeze On New Shipping Tariffs Amid Stakeholder Backlash

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), exercising its statutory role as economic regulator of the port has directed all shipping lines and their agencies to suspend implementation of the recently approved tariffs effective immediately.

According to a statement on Friday, this follows ongoing stakeholder engagements and addresses key concerns about the tariffs’ timing, structure, and effects on port users and the logistics chain.

To protect fair competition, transparency, and sector stability, the Council mandates a halt until comprehensive consultations and reviews conclude.

However, it added that “Operators must revert to the pre-increase tariff regime without exception. Non-compliance will trigger sanctions under applicable laws.

The NSC noted that it will issue a final decision post-review and reaffirmed its dedication to robust regulation, cargo protection, and an efficient maritime system.Strict compliance is required from all operators.

“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), in the exercise of its statutory mandate as the economic regulator of the port and shipping sector, hereby directs all shipping lines and their respective agencies to immediately suspend the implementation of the recently approved tariffs.

“This directive is issued pursuant to ongoing engagements with critical stakeholders and in response to substantive concerns raised regarding the timing, structure, and potential impact of the said tariffs on port users and the wider logistics value chain.

“In order to safeguard fair competition, transparency, and sectoral stability, the Council considers it necessary to halt further implementation pending the conclusion of comprehensive consultations and regulatory review.

“Accordingly, all affected operators are mandated to revert to, and apply strictly, the tariff regime that was in force immediately prior to the said increase. Any deviation from this directive shall constitute a breach of regulatory compliance and will attract appropriate sanctions in line with extant laws and regulations.

“The Council will, upon conclusion of stakeholder consultations and internal review processes, communicate a definitive position on the matter.

“The NSC remains resolute in its commitment to effective economic regulation, protection of cargo interests, and the promotion of an efficient and equitable maritime transport system.

“All operators are hereby enjoined to ensure strict and immediate compliance,” the statement added.