The shipping companyMaerskhas announced the implementation of a temporary emergency fuel surcharge (EBS) due to the impact that the security situation in the Middle East is having on international logistics and supply chains. The company explains that the evolution of the conflict in the region is affecting global access to fuel, especially due to the strategic relevance of theStrait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's fuel transits.
According to the company, the current situation has caused a significant reduction in the availability of fuel in international markets. Several refineries in the region are out of service or operating at reduced capacity, while export capacity has been limited, resulting in disruptions in global energy supply chains.
In light of this scenario, the shipping company finds it necessary to adopt additional operational measures to ensure the stability of its logistics network, secure fuel availability, and protect the integrity of the transported cargoes. In this context, the company has decided to implement the EBS surcharge, which will cover the impact of availability, cost, and the mix of fuels not covered in its current Fossil Fuel Charge.
The surcharge will be applied globally starting March 25, 2026, subject to the corresponding regulatory approvals. The company has explained that this measure will ensure access to the necessary fuel and maintain the capacity to transport it to the places where it is required to sustain logistics operations.
Maersk has also noted that the surcharge will be reviewed every 14 days and may be adjusted, both upwards and downwards, based on the evolution of availability, cost, and the mix of fuels in the international market. The updated levels will be published on the company’s website. The shipping company has additionally indicated that, to preserve the stability of its network, it has carried out a significant redistribution of fuels and is securing alternative supplies from different locations and suppliers to compensate for the shortages detected in the Middle East.