FRENCH shipping giant CMA CGM has announced a low sulphur surcharge on all shipments from the Mediterranean to West Africa from May 1 in line with United Nations mandates, reports the Lagos Guardian.

The move comes as the Mediterranean Sea is set to become an Emission Control Area (ECA) under the UN's International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) regulations aimed at reducing sulphur emissions from ships.

CMA CGM said trading between Europe and the West African corridor will pay a surcharge of US$25 per TEU on shipments originating from the Mediterranean to West Africa.

The company said the surcharge is in addition to the Basic Ocean Freight and will be applied according to standard freight payment terms.

"This measure supports global efforts to reduce the shipping industry's environmental footprint. By using lower sulphur fuels and implementing cleaner technologies, we are contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future," the company stated.