MAERSK SEALAND, P&O NEDLLOYD RAISE MED/U.S. RATES

MAERSK SEALAND, P&O NEDLLOYD RAISE MED/U.S. RATES    The two-carrier United States South Europe Conference, which comprises Maersk Sealand and P&O Nedlloyd, said it plans to increase westbound freight rates, from the Mediterranean to the United States, twice next year.
   The first phase of the general tariff rate increase program will be on Jan. 1, when westbound rates will go up by $240 per 20-foot container and $300 per 40-foot box.
   The second increase will be on May 1, when rates will rise again by $160 per 20-foot box and $200 per 40-footer.
   The conference said it will continue to keep the general level of rates under review during 2001 and may introduce further increases prior to the end of next year.