Calls for independent review of DFDS freight prices

A scrutiny panel has called for an independent review of the flat-rate freight system introduced under the ferry contract the Government of Jersey signed with DFDS.

It follows criticism from businesses about the flat rate structure, under which every freight provider pays the same per metre of space they take up on a ship for goods they bring in.

The suggestion is amongst 21 recommendations from the economic and international affairs scrutiny panel, following a review, launched in November 2025, of the Danish firm's services.

A spokesperson for DFDS acknowledged it had been a "challenging" first year, and said that it had set out a series of timetable and service improvements for 2026.

They said: "We recognise that the first year did not meet everyone's expectations, particularly during the early mobilisation period."

"What matters is the action taken since."

The company said it had strengthened its operational planning, refined timetables using real travel data and improved communication when disruption occurs.

DFDS began running passenger and freight sailings to Jersey on 28 March 2025.

Ministers have previously said they would be open to renegotiating the flat-rate pricing structure if it was found to be contributing to price rises.

Chair of the panel, Deputy Montfort Tadier said it was clear the service islanders and businesses had experienced did not match expectations, resulting in public commentary about "slow sailing times, lack of daytrips to St Malo, condition of the vessels and prices".

The interim report set out 21 recommendations, including calls for the government of Jersey to work with the States of Guernsey and other key stakeholders to develop a long-term solution for inter-island connections.

The panel recommended the results of any reviews and data collected through the monitoring of service should be published by Deputy Kirsten Morel, the minister for sustainable economic development.

Tadier said whilst it was not possible at this stage for the contract to be renegotiated, there were "mechanisms available" the minister could use to request variations.

"As this is an interim report, we will be suggesting that the next panel carry out a further review of the service once sufficient time has passed to allow for comparisons to be made," Tadier added.

The BBC has approached the Government of Jersey for comment.

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