KARACHI — Pakistani exporters are facing mounting cost pressures as global shipping lines and air cargo operators impose new surcharges, triggered by the Middle East conflict, raising concerns over competitiveness and supply chain stability.
Shipping giant Maersk has increased its Emergency Contingency Surcharge for shipments from Pakistan and the wider subcontinent to West Africa, effective April 1. Meanwhile, Menzies RAS and Gerry’s Dnata have introduced ad hoc charges of Rs25-50 per kg on export cargo. A UAE-based airline has also announced a $0.70 per kg supplementary freight charge on Pakistani exports, effective March 19, 2026.
The outbreak of war in the Middle East has led to war-risk and emergency surcharges of $3,500 to $4,000 per twenty-foot container, depending on the carrier.
Exporters warn these additional costs could sharply increase logistics expenses, reduce global competitiveness, and disrupt supply chains. Mian Abdul Hanan, chairman of the All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association, called on the commerce ministry to intervene, describing the charges as “unauthorised and unjustified.” Industry bodies, including FPCCI, have echoed concerns over the impact on exporters.
