The Shippers Association Lagos State said it has suspended increment of charges by the Shipping Lines and Terminal Operators.

The former President of SALS, Jonathan Nicol, made the disclosure in Lagos on Tuesday.

Mr Nicol said, “It is noteworthy that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council reduced terminal operator service fees from 600 % to 400% two years ago, which caused a lot of confusion thereafter in the sector. Increment of charges by both associations are not issues that should be discussed freely when they are yet to hear the final determination of an existing matter at the Supreme Court on unauthorised charges, since 2014 till date. We are asking both associations, the terminal operators and the shipping line operators, to be calm for now.’’

He pleaded with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council not to approve any increases or interfere with the Supreme Court judgement.

Mr Nicol noted that the matter would be resolved among the parties soon.

He explained that SALS would be glad to participate in such discussions before arriving on any increment.

In October 2023, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council reduced a proposed 600 per cent increase in terminal charges to 400 per cent.

The reduction was done to balance the needs of shippers and terminal operators.

Also, recall that NSC was responsible for regulating the Nigerian port transportation system as well as creating an effective environment for Nigerian stakeholders.

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council also established complaints desks at all Nigerian seaports to resolve disputes quickly.

Port charges were fees collected by port authorities, while port charges vary depending on the type of goods being imported.

(NAN)