### Container Transport Charges Surge by 20% 📈

The Container Transport Owners’ Association (CTOA) has announced an immediate 20% increase in transport charges, effective from midnight, March 22, 2026. This adjustment directly impacts the logistics backbone of Sri Lanka’s trade sector. • Primary Cause: The hike is a direct response to the recent domestic fuel price increase, which has significantly raised operational costs for hauliers. • Sector Impact: The revision affects the import and export container transport sector, potentially increasing the landed cost of goods and the overheads for apparel, tea, and other key export commodities. • Authorization: The decision was reached collectively by industry associations and ratified by the CTOA Executive Committee. • Implementation: Formal notifications are currently being issued to importers, exporters, and clearing institutions to integrate the revised rates into their supply chain costs. _Note: This adjustment reflects immediate operational cost shifts in the national logistics network._