South Africa’s Competition Commission has moved to prosecute eight of the world’s largest container shipping companies, including MSC Mediterranean Shipping, Maersk, CMA CGM, and Evergreen, over alleged price-fixing that lasted from 2008 to 2018. The Commission claims the carriers colluded on the General Rate Increase for shipments between Durban and ports in China and Hong Kong.
Commissioner Doris Tshepe stated, “The dismantling of the cartel will reduce the price of goods imported to South Africa for the benefit of consumers and will also reduce the costs of exports out of South Africa, which will, in turn, render the South African exports competitive in the world markets.” The case highlights ongoing concerns about international shipping concentration and South Africa’s reliance on foreign carriers, amid port delays and management challenges at Durban.