Maersk to raise Europe/Australasia rates

Maersk to raise Europe/Australasia rates    Maersk Line said today that it will implement a rate restoration of 75 euros per TEU for all shipments in the trade from Europe (including North Africa) to Australia and New Zealand, effective Oct. 1.
   “The rates from Europe to Australia and New Zealand have fallen significantly in the last two years, resulting in current levels being about $350 per FFE (40-foot equivalent) less than 2006. Over the same period, operating costs have increased in excess of 15 percent. A program to restore rates is required to ensure the route can support longer-term development, which is in the interest of both our customers and Maersk Line,” the carrier said in a statement.