Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc has warned that ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz closure due to the Iran war, risks creating regional marine fuel shortages for shipping operations. In recent interviews (including with CNN, BBC, and Le Monde), Clerc stated there is sufficient global oil supply overall, but “not enough oil everywhere in the world,” leading to dwindling stocks in key bunkering areas like Asia and the Middle East. He highlighted that prolonged issues could leave supply points dry in those regions, forcing carriers to proactively redistribute fuel from regions with ample supplies (such as the US, Europe, and South America) to maintain vessel operations and network stability.
This warning comes as A.P. Moller-Maersk announced on March 10, 2026, the introduction of a temporary Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS) to address soaring fuel costs, availability challenges, and the need to secure alternative sources and redistribute bunkers. The EBS applies globally from March 25, 2026 (subject to regulatory approvals) and will be reviewed every 14 days for potential adjustments based on market conditions. Rates include $200 per 20-foot dry container and $400 per 40-foot dry container on primary headhaul routes, with halved charges on backhaul trades; refrigerated containers face higher fees up to $600 per 40-foot reefer on headhauls.
Maersk’s chief commercial officer, Karsten Kildahl, confirmed in a Journal of Commerce interview that the carrier has begun shipping fuel from the US and Europe to Asia, as key bunkering stations (e.g., Port of Salalah) have been unable to refuel vessels in recent days due to supply chain disruptions.
The company emphasized that these measures, including the surcharge (which covers impacts beyond its existing Fossil Fuel Fee), aim to preserve cargo integrity, ensure fuel access, and keep global networks running despite logistical hurdles. Other container lines are reportedly following suit with similar emergency fuel surcharges as bunker prices surge and availability tightens.
This development exacerbates pressures on global shipping amid the crisis, potentially leading to higher freight costs passed on to shippers and ultimately consumers, as Clerc noted mechanisms exist to transfer fuel price fluctuations. It highlights vulnerabilities in marine fuel supply chains, where around 20% of global bunkers typically transit the Strait of Hormuz, now heavily impacted.
The situation underscores broader industry risks from geopolitical events, including potential congestion, delays, and trade disruptions on major routes. Maersk continues monitoring and redistributing resources to mitigate shortages, but prolonged closure could amplify operational challenges across the sector.