CMA CGM stops collection of container deposit

On May 21, 2025, CMA CGM Nigerian Shipping Limited stopped the collection of container deposit fees from Nigerian shippers who import through its line.

The shipping company formally communicated this positively development to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council while attributing stoppage to valuable customer feedback received over the years.

CMA CGM emphasized that the move was aimed at streamlining operational procedures, simplifying logistics, and improving service delivery.

The cheering news followed sustained stakeholder engagements initiated by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to resolve the age-long disputes arising from the controversial container deposits between Nigerian shippers and the shipping companies.

The Council described the move by CMA CGM as a significant step toward promoting a more efficient, customer-friendly shipping environment in Nigeria.

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

“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 removal of the container deposit aligns with industry-wide calls for more transparent and cost-effective practices within the port and logistics value chain,” the NSC declared.

The Council therefore has encouraged other shipping lines operating in Nigeria to adopt similar customer-focused policies in the interest of fairness, transparency, and improved service efficiency.

It would be recalled that container deposit has been a source of friction between the Shippers and the shipping companies who have been accused of unfair practices.

The container deposit charge is slammed on Shipper over the container used to freight his goods and it is refundable when the shipper returns the container in good condition to the shipping company.

But the shippers have often accused shipping companies of not refunding the charge even if the container is returned in good condition while on other occasions, the deposit is mutilated.