French shipping firm CMA CGM will introduce a Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS) on cargo bound for four West African ports starting next month, citing operational disruptions, reports Lagos Guardian.

The surcharge will take effect on October 1 for most regions and on 15 October for shipments originating from the United States, US territories and Latin America, according to a customer advisory issued by the company.

CMA CGM said the charges apply to all cargo and all origins. Shipments to Bissau, Guinea-Bissau and Conakry, Guinea will incur a surcharge of US$500, EUR425 and EUR370 per TEU.

Cargo bound for Monrovia, Liberia and Freetown, Sierra Leone will attract a lower surcharge of US$300, EUR255 and EUR220 per TEU. The firm said the fees are payable alongside freight costs and will likely raise overall shipping rates and import prices.

The company attributed the new charges to congestion at several West African ports, which has disrupted vessel operations and supply chains. CMA CGM has previously imposed similar surcharges on shipments from Asia to the region.