TASAC orders shipping agents to pay container deposit refunds promptly 

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has directed all shipping agents operating in the Tanzanian Mainland to immediately comply with regulations on container deposit refunds and the return of empty containers, warning that failure to do so will attract strict regulatory action.

A statement issued by the Director General of TASAC, Mohamed Salum, today, February 3, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, noted that the corporation had observed persistent non-compliance with the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Act, Cap. 415 and the Tanzania Shipping Agencies (Shipping Agents) Regulations of 2018, particularly in relation to delays in refunding container deposits.

According to the Director General, some shipping agents have failed to refund container deposits within the legally prescribed timeframes, contrary to Regulation 21E(f). TASAC also cited cases where shipping agents and empty container depots declined to accept returned empty containers until demurrage charges were settled, a practice it said has caused unnecessary delays, disputes over charges and disruption of container circulation within the supply chain.

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TASAC has now ordered shipping agents to process and pay container deposit refunds within the time limits prescribed by law and to receive empty containers promptly upon return.

Moreover, he said that invoices for any applicable charges should be issued after the containers are received, in line with the regulations.

The notice takes effect from the date of issuance.

TASAC warned that non-compliance will result in enforcement measures, including administrative penalties, suspension or cancellation of licences, and other sanctions as provided under the law.

Moreover, shipping agents facing operational challenges affecting compliance have been instructed to notify TASAC in writing without delay for consideration in accordance with the law.