The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has cancelled the 15 per cent transit fee rebate previously granted to large container ships. The decision takes effect on 7 April 2026. The suspension applies to laden and ballast container ships with Suez Canal Net Tonnage (SCNT) of 130,000 tonnes or above, transiting either northbound or southbound.
In its latest periodical, the SCA said it had suspended Circular No. 3/2025, issued on 13 May 2025, as well as Periodical No. 29/2025, issued on 17 November 2025. Both measures related to the 15 per cent rebate for qualifying container vessels. The original rebate was introduced for container ships of 130,000 tonnes or more and applied to vessels transiting in both directions, set to run from 15 May 2025 for an initial 90-day period. The new circular does not provide further detail beyond confirming the suspension and its effective date.
The change comes at a time when hopes of a broader recovery in Suez traffic remain limited. Many major carriers continue to route vessels via the Cape of Good Hope due to ongoing Red Sea risks. The rebate cancellation signals SCA's intent to support canal revenues and may directly impact freight costs and routing decisions for large container ships.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Suez Canal Authority cancelled the 15 per cent rebate for large container ships.
2. The decision took effect on 7 April 2026.
3. The rebate applied to laden and ballast vessels of 130,000 SCNT and above.
4. Two periodicals dated 13 May 2025 and 17 November 2025 were suspended.
5. The move comes amid persistent Red Sea risks and weak Suez traffic.
