In a move aimed at easing cost pressures on exporters, the Directorate General of Shipping has issued a stern advisory directing ports to immediately pass on all fee concessions without delays.
The April 8 directive comes against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted shipping routes and pushed up logistics costs. The regulator has specifically instructed port authorities to extend relief on charges such as detention, ground rent and reefer fees directly to exporters.
Crucially, the advisory mandates that these benefits be provided upfront, rather than through refund-based mechanisms or post-facto adjustments. The DG Shipping has emphasised that no delays will be acceptable, and has called for strict compliance across all ports and terminals.
The move is aimed at ensuring greater cost transparency and preventing exporters from facing working capital strain due to delayed reimbursements. Exporters have often flagged concerns over lagged benefits, which can significantly impact cash flows, especially during periods of global uncertainty. The advisory also highlighted the rising War Risk Premium (WRP), which has added another layer of cost burden amid the ongoing crisis in key maritime corridors.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
