Ghana Shippers’ Authority Warns of Higher Freight Costs Amid Middle East Maritime Disruptions
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has cautioned importers and exporters in Ghana to brace for higher freight costs and possible shipping delays following disruptions to global maritime traffic caused by escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
In a notice issued to shippers on March 11, 2026, the Authority indicated that the conflict has significantly affected vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors for energy and containerised cargo.
According to the GSA, the Strait handles about one-quarter of global seaborne oil trade, significant volumes of liquefied natural gas, and roughly one-third of global seaborne fertiliser shipments annually.
Citing analysis by UN Trade and Development, the Authority noted that disruptions in the Strait could have far-reaching consequences for global supply chains, energy markets and agricultural inputs.
Shipping routes disrupted
The Authority explained that following the escalation of hostilities on February 28, several international shipping lines have suspended or rerouted vessel movements through the affected area.
Many carriers are now diverting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, a longer route that significantly increases sailing distance and operational costs.
The development is expected to lead to longer transit times and increased freight charges for cargo destined for West African markets, including Ghana.
War risk surcharges introduced
The GSA further disclosed that several shipping lines have begun imposing war risk and emergency conflict surcharges on cargo linked to the affected region.
Currently announced charges range between approximately US$1,500 and US$2,000 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU), with additional fees likely for 40-foot and refrigerated containers.
“These surcharges are a global industry practice introduced when vessels operate in conflict-affected or high-risk maritime areas,” the Authority explained, noting that the charges are intended to offset rising insurance premiums, additional security measures, longer sailing routes and higher fuel consumption.
The Authority warned that the additional costs could ultimately raise the landed cost of imported goods in Ghana, particularly those originating from Asia and the Middle East.
Advisory to Ghanaian shippers
In light of the developments, the GSA has advised importers, exporters and logistics operators to proactively engage with shipping lines and freight forwarders on freight rates and surcharges.
Shippers have also been urged to factor potential delays and cost adjustments into commercial planning, review insurance arrangements where necessary, and closely monitor developments in global shipping routes.
The Authority emphasised that it does not impose surcharges on shipments on behalf of shipping lines but regulates charges by shipping service providers to ensure fairness and protect the interests of Ghanaian consumers.
It further revealed that it has begun investigating reports circulating on social media suggesting that some surcharges were imposed even before the conflict escalated.
The Authority assured the shipping public that any breaches or unfair practices uncovered during the investigation will be addressed.
