In brief
- On 25 July 2026, Wardheer News reported that traders accuse DP World of failing to implement an announced Bosaso Port fee agreement.
- Traders claim the disputed MT/CBM charges are still being imposed and have called for a review and comparative assessment.
- Neither DP World nor the Puntland government had publicly responded as of publication.
Bosaso Port Dispute Reignites as Traders Accuse DP World
On 25 July 2026, Wardheer News reported that the Bosaso Port fee dispute had reignited, with traders accusing DP World of failing to honor an announced agreement over port handling charges.
The report said the controversy flared again just days after authorities announced a breakthrough in the long-running dispute over port charges at Bosaso Port, Puntland's principal commercial gateway.
Traders' allegations
In a joint statement, representatives of the business community alleged that DP World continued to impose the same disputed MT/CBM port handling charges despite the recently announced agreement with the Puntland government, according to Wardheer News.
The traders claimed they have effectively been compelled to pay the very fees they had challenged throughout the dispute. They argued the agreement has yet to be reflected in practice, raising fresh questions about its implementation and enforcement.
Calls for review and comparison
The traders called for an immediate review of the MT/CBM tariff system introduced by DP World at Bosaso Port. They urged Puntland authorities to require the company to publicly explain the basis, methodology, and justification for the new fee structure.
Additionally, the traders requested an official comparative assessment of port charges at Bosaso, Berbera, and Mogadishu. They argued that the fees imposed at Bosaso appear significantly higher than those charged at competing ports in the region, and contended that the disparity risks undermining Bosaso's competitiveness as a major commercial hub and increasing costs for importers, exporters, and ultimately consumers.
Appeal to President Deni
The renewed dispute prompted traders to appeal directly to Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, urging him to personally intervene and ensure that the commitments announced during last week's negotiations are fully implemented, Wardheer News reported.
Background and current status
The disagreement had previously disrupted commercial activity in Bosaso and contributed to rising prices of essential goods across Puntland before a settlement was announced. The latest developments have revived concerns that the dispute could once again affect trade, supply chains, and business confidence if a durable resolution is not reached.
As of publication, neither DP World nor the Puntland government had publicly responded to the traders' latest allegations or clarified whether additional negotiations are planned to resolve the renewed impasse.
Frequently asked questions
What fee agreement did DP World allegedly breach?
Traders allege DP World continued to impose the same disputed MT/CBM port handling charges despite an announced agreement with the Puntland government.
What are the traders' specific grievances?
Traders claim the agreement has not been implemented, they are still paying the disputed fees, and they seek a review of the tariff system, a public explanation of the fee basis, and a comparative assessment with Berbera and Mogadishu.
How has DP World responded to the allegations?
As of 25 July 2026, DP World had not publicly responded to the traders' allegations, according to Wardheer News.