Shipping Surcharges Soar: Exporters Cry Foul Amid West Asia Tensions

• Shipping lines demand up to USD 4,000 surcharge on 40-foot containers for perishable goods, refusing delivery.
• Exporters, including FIEO, raise concerns with the Commerce Ministry over additional costs and consignment delays.
• Surcharges imposed due to US-Israel attacks on Iran, affecting goods shipped even before February 28.
• Sea freight up 50%, container shortage, and air freight costs soaring, impacting India's export competitiveness.
• Government forms inter-ministerial group to assess geopolitical impact on India's USD 58.8 billion West Asian exports.