Domestic shipping, cargo rates to go up amid global oil price shocks

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) raised the maximum fuel-related surcharge for domestic shipping and cargo services to 30% amid the global oil price shock fueled by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 

Under Advisory No. 2026-15 issued on March 30, 2026 by MARINA administrator Sonia Malaluan, MARINA increased the previous 20% cap on rate adjustments by 10 percentage points effective immediately. 

The directive applies to all domestic shipping companies, shipowners, and concerned maritime entities.

The adjustment aims to help the maritime sector absorb rising operational costs.

Meanwhile, shipments of agricultural products and basic commodities are excluded from the hike and will remain under the original 20% ceiling.

Shipping firms are prohibited from implementing hikes without a mandatory three-day notice. 

MARINA requires publishing the above-mentioned notification in newspapers or posting it in ports, terminals, and on social media platforms. 

The three-day notification rule also applies to rate reductions should global fuel prices decline.

MARINA said it will conduct regular monitoring to ensure compliance. 

Operators found exceeding the 30% cap will face administrative fines and legal sanctions. 

The move comes as the global energy market remains volatile, with shipping lines struggling to maintain service frequency amid the oil price shock triggered by Middle Eastern instability. — JMA, GMA News