Dear Valued Client
Please be advised that MSC has announced a General Rate Increase (GRI) effective 1 March 2026 (proforma sail date) for all cargo moving ex China, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, Korea and Southeast Asia to South Africa, East Africa, Namibia and the Indian Ocean Islands.
The GRI will be applied at a quantum of USD 500 per TEU.
At this stage, no other carriers have formally announced a specific GRI for the Far East to South Africa trade effective March 2026. However, several major shipping lines have issued broad rate adjustments and Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) on Asia–Africa corridors, which may similarly impact freight levels on these routes.
A kind reminder that Chinese New Year starts from 17 February 2026, during which factory closures and reduced vessel capacity may result in space constraints, schedule disruptions, and rate volatility before and shortly after the holiday period.
If you have any questions regarding the above, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.