News / Feeders facing headwinds as negotiations over low-sulphur surcharges heat up

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While nearly all carriers have introduced sulphur emission control area (SECA) surcharges, claiming shippers will contribute to the extra cost of low-sulphur fuel, North European feeder operators are becoming frustrated in their negotiations with ocean carriers in obtaining similar agreements.

Under tougher IMO regulations shortsea and feeder lines deploying ships in the Channel, North Sea and Baltic Sea from 1 January will be required to burn only the more expensive marine gas oil (MGO) with a maximum of 0.1% sulphur content.

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