JUST AS it warned shippers a month ago (DCN 13 November) the CMA CGM Group will respond to a ramping-up of the European Union Emission Trading Scheme with a heavily revised surcharge from 1 January 2025.

The new Energy Transition Surcharge will replace the current charge of the same acronym but the French carrier does not appear to have yet issued exact details of the new quantum; it is encouraging shippers to/from Europe to make contact with local representatives.

 “Starting in 2025, the EU ETS regulation will evolve to account for 70% of our emissions, compared to the current 40% in 2024. This substantial increase in the percentage of emissions covered by the EU ETS will have a direct impact on our cost structure.

“As a result of this regulatory change, we anticipate an increase of approximately 75% in our current EU ETS surcharge amounts. Please note that this estimate does not consider potential fluctuations in CO2 prices, which could further influence the final surcharge amounts.”

CMA CGM notes that the Fuel EU legislation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport by promoting the use of sustainable fuels. This regulation requires maritime companies to gradually increase the use of renewable and low-carbon fuels, thereby decreasing their environmental impact. The costs associated with complying with this legislation will be included in the new Energy Transition Surcharge.

 The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) is a cornerstone of the EU’s policy to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions cost-effectively. The system works on the “cap and trade” principle, where a cap is set on the total amount of certain greenhouse gases that can be emitted by installations covered by the system. Companies receive or buy emission allowances which they can trade with one another as needed.

The ETS will continue to cover the costs associated with the EU ETS, ensuring compliance with these important environmental regulations, CMA CGM says. “We are committed to transparency and will continue to keep you informed about any further developments.”

The Group links Australia and New Zealand with Europe via the NEMO service via the Cape of Good Hope and the PAD service through Panama. Both services are weekly.