KUCHING: Sarawak Shipping Association has announced a 30% increase in freight charges from March 16 due to rising operating costs.

Announcing this recently, it said the charges had to be increased to reduce losses of ship owners and operators.

“The global crude oil price frequently surged up to US$100 (RM317) per barrel and this resulted in the cost of unsubsidised bunker fuel for ships reaching a record high.

“The situation was exacerbated by rising costs of mandatory ship surveys and maintenance, price rises in materials and equipment, and increased wages for qualified crew.

“Ship owners and operators can no longer afford such an increase in operating costs,” it said in a statement.

The association said that coastal vessel operators had not adjusted freight charges in Sarawak since 2004.

“We hope all merchants and shippers understand the situation and provide support to enable us to continue in a conducive environment,” it added.

source from: http://thestar.com.my/