Bosaso (WDN) – Just days after authorities announced a breakthrough in the long-running dispute over port charges at Bosaso Port, the controversy has unexpectedly flared up again, with traders accusing DP World of failing to implement the agreement that many believed had finally brought the crisis to an end.

The renewed disagreement has come as a surprise to the business community, which had welcomed last week’s announcement as a significant step toward restoring confidence and stability at Puntland’s principal commercial gateway. However, several Bosaso traders now insist that the underlying dispute remains unresolved.

In a joint statement, representatives of the business community alleged that DP World has continued to impose the same disputed MT/CBM port handling charges despite the recently announced agreement with the Puntland government. They claim they have effectively been compelled to pay the very fees they had challenged throughout the dispute.

The traders argued that the agreement has yet to be reflected in practice, raising fresh questions about its implementation and enforcement. Seeking greater transparency, the business community called for an immediate review of the MT/CBM tariff system introduced by DP World at Bosaso Port. They also urged Puntland authorities to require the company to publicly explain the basis, methodology, and justification for the new fee structure.

In addition, the traders requested an official comparative assessment of port charges at Bosaso, Berbera, and Mogadishu, arguing that the fees imposed at Bosaso appear significantly higher than those charged at competing ports in the region. They contend that the disparity risks undermining Bosaso’s competitiveness as a major commercial hub and increasing costs for importers, exporters, and ultimately consumers.

The renewed dispute has 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.

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 therefore 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.

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