Maritime piracy-induced costs paid by clients of transport companies

The recent figures disclosed by the Kenya Shippers Council refer to additional costs amounting to 2 billion KES (27.2 million USD) per month over a period of 18 months now. These overcharges are accounted for by acts of maritime piracy.

Marine transit companies charge part of these costs to the local importers and exporters. Such is the case of additional costs due to the extension of navigation routes.

The increase of transport costs has had a negative impact on the regional economies. Among other increases, we note also the rise of insurance tariffs which doubled in 18 months.