Maersk introduces emergency surcharge as fuel prices soar

OSLO, March 10 (Reuters) - Container shipping group A.P. Moller-Maersk MAERSKb.CO is introducing a temporary emergency bunker surcharge (EBS) due to the soaring cost of fuel caused by the Iran war, the Danish company said on Tuesday.

With 20% of global fuel normally moving through the Strait of Hormuz, the ongoing closure has significantly impacted global access to fuel, Maersk said in a statement.

• This circumstance has led to substantial disruptions in global fuel supply chains.

• By implementing the surcharge, we are best placed to continue to offer said stability as we have access to the needed fuel and the ability to move it to where it is needed.

• EBS to be introduced globally from March 25, subject to regulatory approvals.

• EBS for 20-foot containers set to $200, 40-foot containers at $400 on primary "headhaul" routes.

• Containers on "backhaul" routes will be charged half the cost

• Refrigerated "headhaul" 20-foot containers face $300 EBS, 40-foot containers $600, with half the charge on "backhaul" journeys.

• EBS will be monitored every 14 days and adjusted if relevant based on fuel availability, cost and mix.