UN maritime agency rejects Hormuz transit fees

The International Maritime Organization on July 13 said it opposed proposals to charge ships transit fees for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for oil shipments. The agency linked its statement to a recent public call by former President Donald Trump for vessels to pay for protection, and it said such levies would undermine collective security.

IMO statement on July 13

The agency said the security environment around the strait had deteriorated after attacks on multiple commercial ships this week, and officials warned that unilateral tolls could complicate maritime safety and legal responsibilities. Officials said the body would work with coastal states and flag registries to coordinate responses rather than endorse private or state-imposed protection fees.

Ship operators, insurers and energy traders are monitoring the dispute because the strait handles a substantial share of global seaborne oil flows; any sustained disruption or rerouting would raise freight and crude pricing pressure. Officials said companies are reviewing routes and insurance terms but gave no timeline for changes to ship movements.

Markets and shipping firms will watch transits through the strait over the next 72 hours (through July 16) for early signs of disruption or rerouting that could affect supply and sea-borne freight rates.