Shipping Arabia, September 26, 2026 – CMA CGM freight rate increases are taking effect across several trade lanes serving Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The carrier and its subsidiary ANL have announced a series of adjustments covering dry and refrigerated containers, alongside a separate Peak Season Surcharge on China-Durban cargo.
The measures affect shipments originating in Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa and China. Implementation dates vary by trade, with some changes already in effect and others beginning in October.
ANL Raises Australia Rates From October 1
ANL will increase freight rates from Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East to Australia from October 1, 2026. The adjustment applies to both dry and refrigerated containers.
The increase is set at $300 per 20-foot container and $600 per 40-foot container. ANL will add the adjustment to existing spot or Freight All Kinds rates, while applicable surcharges will continue to apply.
The measure covers shipments from the affected origin markets to Australia and represents one part of the wider CMA CGM freight rate increases announced across several trades.
CMA CGM Adds China-Durban Peak Season Surcharge
CMA CGM has also introduced a Peak Season Surcharge on cargo moving from China to Durban, South Africa. The surcharge took effect on September 17 and is based on the loading date.
The carrier set the surcharge at $100 per TEU and said it will remain in place until further notice. This charge applies separately from the freight rate changes affecting Australia and New Zealand.
Australia and New Zealand Rates Rise From Europe and North Africa
CMA CGM is also applying higher freight rates from Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa to Australia and New Zealand. These increases took effect on September 21, 2026.
The carrier raised rates by $250 per dry container and $400 per refrigerated container on the affected trades. The adjustment therefore covers both major equipment types and several origin regions serving Australia and New Zealand.
Together, the announced measures include increases to base freight rates as well as a separate Peak Season Surcharge. They affect cargo moving to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa under different trade-specific arrangements and implementation dates.
Source: Al-Mal