The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has urged foreign shipping lines operating in the country to scrap container deposit charges imposed on Nigerian shippers.

This is coming after the Council acknowledged the decision of CMA CGM Nigeria Shipping Limited to officially remove the container deposit requirement for all new bookings effective May 21, 2025.

Recall that shippers and freight forwarders have been lamenting defaults with container deposit refunds from shipping companies, which take over a month to process instead of the stipulated two-week period, pointing out the Mediterranean Shipping Company Nigeria Limited and CMA CGM for the unfair practices.

The NSC, in its social media handle (X), said this development follows sustained stakeholder engagements and is a significant step toward promoting a more efficient, customer-friendly shipping environment in Nigeria.

The NSC commended this initiative and views it as a milestone in ongoing efforts to reduce trade barriers, enhance compliance, and boost competitiveness at Nigerian ports.

According to the Council, this policy shift is expected to ease the financial burden on shippers, reduce disputes over refunds, and further drive reforms across the maritime sector.

The Council further stated that the removal of the container deposit aligns with industry-wide calls for more transparent and cost-effective practices within the port and logistics value chain.

In a formal communication to the Council, the CMA CGM attributed the decision to valuable customer feedback received over the years.

The shipping firm emphasised that the move is aimed at streamlining operational procedures, simplifying logistics, and improving service delivery.