What changed
On 7 June 2026 the SCA issued one circular and a series of periodicals raising the temporary surcharges it adds to normal transit dues. All apply to vessels transiting from 15 July 2026, in both directions unless noted.
| Vessel type (tariff rate) | Surcharge now | Before | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Containerships (Rate 7) | 12% of total transit dues | – | Circular 2/2026 |
| Crude oil tankers, laden (1L) | 37% | 25% | Periodical 16/2026 |
| Crude oil tankers, ballast (1B) | 27% | 15% | Periodical 16/2026 |
| Petroleum products tankers, laden (2L) | 37% | 25% | Periodical 17/2026 |
| Petroleum products tankers, ballast (2B) | 27% | 15% | Periodical 17/2026 |
| Dry bulk (Rate 3) | 22% | 10% | Periodical 18/2026 |
| LPG carriers (Rate 4) | 32% | 20% | Periodical 19/2026 |
| LNG carriers (Rate 5) | 19% | 7% | Periodical 20/2026 |
| Chemical and other liquid bulk tankers (Rate 6) | 32% | 20% | Periodical 21/2026 |
| General cargo, multi-purpose, heavy lift (Rate 8) | 26% | 14% | Periodical 22/2026 |
| RoRo vessels (Rate 9) | 26% | 14% | Periodical 23/2026 |
| Vehicle carriers (Rate 10), northbound | 26% | 14% | Periodical 24/2026 |
| Vehicle carriers (Rate 10), southbound | 12% | – | Periodical 24/2026 |
| Special floating units (Rate 12) | 26% | 14% | Periodical 25/2026 |
| Other vessels (Rate 13) | 26% | 14% | Periodical 26/2026 |
Percentages are of the normal transit dues, except containerships, where the 12% is on total dues including the surcharges for container tiers on the weather deck.
Who is affected
- Almost every commercial vessel transiting the canal from 15 July 2026.
- Charterers and operators comparing the Suez route with the Cape of Good Hope: the higher dues change that calculation, especially for tankers.
- Vessels on trades that also qualify for a route-based rebate. Those rebates were renewed to 31 December 2026, so check how your agent applies both.
What to do
- Re-run your Suez cost estimates for voyages from 15 July 2026 against the new percentages.
- Watch for changes. The SCA says these surcharges are temporary and can be amended or cancelled with "Maritime Industry" market conditions.
- Ask your agent to confirm the dues calculation, including any rebate your trade qualifies for, before fixing the voyage.