The extent of the Global Economy meltdown is well documented in the press.
Already, the shipping lines have had to respond in a manner that has seen rates
continually decrease over the recent months.
They have cut services – in some cases, lines have ceased to exist- in an attempt
to stimulate the rates in the reverse direction. They are endeavoring to reduce
their operating costs by re rerouting Eastbound services which will have an
ultimate effect on the service schedules.
In an ever more competitive marketplace, the demand has started to increase
that has resulted in some lines over the Chinese New Year, apply the draconian
measure of off loads to reinforce the shortage of space situation.
In the last week, many lines (ANL,APL,COSCO,CSCL,HAPAG,KLINE,MITSUI and
OOCL) have all announced their intention to apply a General Rate Increase (GRI)
from 1st April.
In line with EU directives, there is no common fixed amount and these will vary
from line to line and container sizes.
These rates will be advised shortly. However, they are a very serious increase on
current market levels.
WT SeaAir are in active discussions with all carriers in an attempt to determine
what course the rates will follow. We will try to communicate the results direct
as soon as possible but would ask that you continue to view the latest news on
our web site.

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