FMC Rejects Carrier Requests to Waive Surcharge Waiting Period

In a decision that will impact global supply chains, the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has rejected requests from several major container shipping lines to waive the mandatory 30-day notice period for implementing new surcharges on cargo bound for the Middle East. According to the *Journal of Commerce*, the FMC denied waiver requests from CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, and Zim. This means the carriers will be forced to wait until early April before they can begin levying the new surcharges, which are designed to recoup higher operating costs associated with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 'The Commission has determined that the requests do not meet the criteria for granting a waiver of the 30-day notice requirement,' the FMC said in a statement. 'Accordingly, the Commission denies the requests.' The decision comes as container shipping lines have been grappling with significant disruptions and added expenses due to the war in Ukraine and resulting sanctions on Russia. Many carriers have sought to pass these costs on to shippers through new emergency surcharges, but the FMC regulations require a minimum 30-day notice period before such fees can take effect. Industry analysts say the FMC's rejection of the waiver requests underscores the Commission's efforts to provide stability and predictability for shippers amid the current supply chain volatility. By maintaining the notice period, the FMC is aiming to give cargo owners time to adjust to the new surcharges. 'The FMC is trying to balance the needs of carriers to recover costs with the need for shippers to have advance notice of rate changes,' said Lars Jensen, CEO of container shipping advisory firm Vespucci Maritime.