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CMA CGM Delays Panama Canal Surcharge as Waterway Tightens Capacity

CMA CGM postponed its $150 per teu Low Water Surcharge to October 1, moving back the fee originally set for September 1. The charge applies to containerized cargo from South America's west coast to North Europe, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, US Gulf and other major gateways.

The delay reflects mounting restrictions at the Panama Canal, where draft limitations and transit quotas are compressing vessel capacity. Beginning September 2, neopanamax vessels will face a maximum permitted draft of 14 metres, restricting vessels currently drawing 15 metres or more. Daily transits will decline from 36 to 34 slots on September 3, then to 32 from September 15, subject to adjustment.

Analysts warn the impact extends beyond fewer transit slots. Braemar data showed 45 percent of neopanamax transits involve vessels drawing 15 metres or deeper, indicating significant vessels will require route adjustments or cargo reductions.