Iran has begun charging transit fees of up to $2 million per voyage on some commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to people familiar with the matter, marking a new development in the handling of traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
- Payments are being requested on an ad hoc basis, creating an informal toll system for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
- Some ships have already made payments, though details such as currency and payment mechanisms remain unclear.
- The policy does not appear to be uniformly enforced across all vessels, according to sources familiar with the situation.
- The Strait of Hormuz is a key global shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
- U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the importance of keeping the strait open, according to a U.S. envoy.
- Iranian state-affiliated media reported at least one commercial vessel successfully transited the strait amid the developments.
Relevant Companies
- Exxon Mobil ($XOM) – Exposure to global oil supply flows that depend on transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Chevron ($CVX) – Operations and pricing tied to crude oil markets impacted by disruptions in the strait.
- Scorpio Tankers ($STNG) – Shipping costs and tanker operations directly affected by transit conditions and fees.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.