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The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has stepped up regulatory pressure on the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), formally directing the shipping giant to immediately suspend the implementation of its newly introduced tariff as the dispute over shipping charges intensifies across Nigeria’s maritime sector.
In a letter dated March 23, 2026, titled “Re: Suspension of Tariff Approval” with reference number MSC/RSD/M4/044/VOL/124, the Council instructed MSC to strictly comply with its earlier directive halting the tariff increase.
The letter was signed by the Director of the Regulatory Services Department, Margaret Ogbonnah, on behalf of the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Council, Dr. Pius Akutah MON, and addressed to the Managing Director of MSC in Nigeria.
According to the Council, the shipping line must immediately revert to the existing tariff structure and maintain the current charges until a comprehensive stakeholders’ meeting is convened to deliberate on the proposed increase and its impact on port users.
The communication reinforces the Council’s position that no shipping company is authorised to implement new tariffs at this time, especially amid mounting tension between shipping lines and freight forwarders over the controversial charges.
“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has formally requested your organisation to comply with the tariff suspension until a stakeholders’ meeting is held soonest. Please accept the assurances of the Executive Secretary/CEO’s esteemed regards,” the letter stated.
The directive is expected to further intensify scrutiny on shipping companies operating in the country, as industry stakeholders continue to demand transparency and proper consultation before any adjustment in shipping charges is approved.
