Indian exporters face 40% container shipping increase April 1
Business
Indian exporters are about to pay a lot more to send goods overseas, with container shipping rates jumping by 40% starting April 1, 2026.
The main reasons? Higher fuel costs and rising insurance premiums linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran.
This is the second price hike in the past month from big names like MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM.
Exports to Europe face higher costs
The new rates especially hurt exports heading to Europe. For example, sending a container from Nhava Sheva to Antwerp will now cost $3,150, a 46.5% increase. Routes to Valencia are also up by over 44%.
On top of that, Maersk and CMA CGM have added extra surcharges and raised their standard rates for several key trade lanes, making things even tougher for Indian businesses trying to compete globally.