Government puts new maritime levies on hold, enters talks with industry players

The Federal Government, acting through the Nigerian Shippers' Council, has instructed shipping lines and their agents to put the recently approved tariff on hold due to concerns from key stakeholders in the industry.

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This directive from the Nigerian Shippers' Council requires all shipping lines and agencies to maintain the current state of affairs until a consensus is reached among stakeholders, after which a final resolution will be communicated.

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A statement from the Council's management explicitly directs shipping lines and their respective agencies to immediately suspend the implementation of the newly approved tariffs, citing ongoing consultations and concerns from stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sector.

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The decision to halt the tariff implementation is aimed at promoting fairness, transparency, and industrial harmony, with all parties required to maintain the status quo until further discussions are concluded.

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Once all stakeholders have concluded their discussions and reported back to the Nigerian Shippers' Council, a final resolution will be announced, according to the Council's statement.

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The Nigerian Shippers' Council is committed to fostering collaboration and ensuring sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and protection of stakeholders' interests across the sector, urging all parties to comply with the directive and cooperate during the consultation period.

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Earlier in the week, customs brokers and freight forwarders had protested the increase in shipping charges by picketing the Mediterranean Shipping Company, highlighting the tensions surrounding the tariff changes.