German shipping group Hapag-Lloyd has introduced a war risk surcharge for cargo to and from the Upper Gulf, Arabian Gulf and Persian Gulf from March 2 until further notice, reports London's Middle East Online.

The surcharge is set at US$1,500 per TEU for standard containers and $3,500 per container for reefers and special equipment. The charge will be borne by the booking party, typically the shipper or forwarder, reflecting higher costs and risks in volatile Gulf waters.

Hapag-Lloyd cited the dynamic situation around the Strait of Hormuz and the need for enhanced security measures as reasons for the decision. The move comes as carriers adjust operations amid escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Maersk and CMA CGM have paused or rerouted sailings through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, diverting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope. CMA CGM also introduced an emergency conflict surcharge covering destinations across the Gulf, Red Sea and Horn of Africa.

Ports such as Jebel Ali in Dubai temporarily suspended operations after reports of missile activity. Insurers have cancelled or sharply raised war risk premiums for vessels transiting the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, with rates rising by up to 50 per cent from previous levels of about 0.25 per cent of a ship's replacement value.

The measures underscore the severe impact of the conflict on maritime trade routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for 20-30 per cent of global seaborne oil and significant liquefied natural gas volumes. Longer voyages, higher insurance and surcharges are expected to drive up freight costs and strain supply chains.