Importers across East Africa are preparing for higher business costs after global shipping carriers introduced significant freight surcharges on cargo arriving from China and Hong Kong, a move expected to increase the cost of consumer goods, industrial inputs, and infrastructure materials across the region. Danish shipping company Maersk announced revised Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) effective June 15, 2026, affecting shipments destined for key East African gateways including the ports of Mombasa in Kenya and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
According to People Daily Kenya and Reuters, importers shipping goods from China and Hong Kong to Kenya will face surcharges of $1,000 for 20-foot containers and $2,000 for 40-foot containers. Cargo bound for Dar es Salaam will attract a $1,000 surcharge for 20-foot containers and $1,400 for 40-foot containers. The revised charges apply to non-spot bookings and come on top of existing freight rates, port fees, and other logistics-related costs. The company said the increases reflect prevailing market conditions affecting global shipping operations.
The development is particularly significant for East African economies because China remains the region’s largest source of imports, supplying machinery, electronics, construction materials, vehicles, industrial equipment, and consumer goods. As highlighted by The East African, businesses across Kenya and Tanzania are expected to experience higher landed costs, which could eventually be passed on to wholesalers, retailers, manufacturers, and consumers. Industry participants also point to ongoing pressures in global supply chains, including Red Sea shipping disruptions, port congestion, and elevated operating costs for maritime carriers.
Beyond retail markets, the surcharge increases could affect government infrastructure projects and industrial expansion plans that depend heavily on imported Chinese equipment and raw materials. Business Insider Africa reported that contractors and logistics operators are concerned about the impact on project budgets and delivery timelines, particularly as many regional economies continue to manage currency pressures and rising operating expenses. Analysts note that higher transportation costs often feed directly into inflation, especially in import-dependent economies.
