Basmati exporters demand urgent govt crackdown on war-risk fees surging to 70 percent

War-risk surcharges can hit 70 percent of cargo

Basmati rice exporters say West Asia’s instability is pushing shipping costs out of reach, with war-risk surcharges climbing as high as 70% of cargo value. They allege shipping lines are diverting shipments and holding containers, forcing exporters to absorb losses without clear recourse. A farmers and exporters forum is urging government action to regulate surcharges and ensure fair maritime practices.