Ocean carrier emissions surcharges set to rise sharply in 2026

From 1 January 2026 ocean carriers are implementing significantly higher emissions-related surcharges linked to the next phase of the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), which will move to full emissions coverage across maritime transport.

Under the EU ETS framework, shipping lines will now be required to surrender allowances covering 100% of verified CO₂ emissions on voyages between EU ports, as well as 50% of emissions on voyages entering or leaving the EU. While this obligation has been phased in over recent years, 2026 marks the point at which the system reaches full scope. In addition, methane and nitrous oxide emissions will be formally incorporated into the scheme, further increasing carriers’ compliance costs.

In response, carriers have already signalled substantial increases in ETS-related surcharges across major deep-sea trades serving Europe. On lanes such as Asia–North Europe and Asia–Mediterranean, early indications suggest emissions surcharges could rise by 40–50% or more compared with current levels, depending on vessel deployment, fuel mix and trade-lane exposure. The lack of a standardised calculation methodology means surcharge levels may vary significantly between carriers, adding complexity for comparing service options.

For EU and UK shippers, these increases will come on top of already elevated baseline freight costs and ongoing volatility in ocean markets. Carbon compliance charges are no longer a marginal add-on; they are becoming a structural component of landed supply-chain costs that must be factored into annual budgets and contract negotiations.

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