ESPMC-WITASS raising rates from West Coast South America

ESPMC-WITASS raising rates from West Coast South America Europe/Caribbean/South America trade liner conference ESPMC-WITASS said today its members will seek northbound rate increases for cargo moving from Chile, Peru and Ecuador to North Europe, effective Jan. 1.
   The six conference members — Container Cargo Lines Inc., CMA CGM, Compania Sud Americana de Vapores (CSAV), Hamburg Sud, Hapag-Lloyd and “K” Line — are seeking a rate increase of $350 per TEU and $450 per FEU from Chile and Peru while from Ecuador they are after an extra $150 per TEU and $250 per FEU.
   Chile will also be subject to a northbound peak season surcharge of $200 per TEU and $300 per FEU that will run from March 1 until June 30.
   Meanwhile, the liner conference will charge $35 per TEU for export containers in Colombia to cover the cost of moving outbound boxes from stacking areas to the ship’s side.
   ESPMC-WITASS has filed notice of its intention to implement the “Porteo” charge with the Maritime Authority of Colombia (DIMAR). If approved, the charge will apply to bills of lading dated on or after Jan. 1.