Maersk Line, RUSAL Partner Long-term
Container shipper Maersk Line has signed an agreement of intent with global aluminum producer RUSAL to cooperate within cargo transportation for the long term. Under the agreement, RUSAL and Maersk Line will cooperate with regards to transport of RUSAL’s products, particularly aluminum and alloys. The estimated cargo volume of the agreement may reach 10,000 containers (TEU) per year. The agreement is valid for three years and includes options for further extension. “The signing of this agreement is a confirmation of the mutual intentions to build a long-term strategic partnership between RUSAL and Maersk Line. The aim of the agreement is the joint search for the most optimal logistic solutions aimed at optimizing costs for both parties,” said Vladislav Soloviev, RUSAL CEO.
Maersk to Introduce Low Sulphur Surcharge
To offset the additional cost incurred by switching to cleaner fuels in Emission Control Areas, as required by the new regulation, Maersk Line will introduce a new Low Sulphur Surcharge (LSS). The surcharge will be effective from 1 January 2015 and affect all cargo with load port, transshipment and/or discharge port in Emission Control Areas. This is Maersk line’s ongoing commitment to sustainability by supporting the establishment of ECAs as a way to reduce air pollution from shipping. The Low Sulphur Surcharge (LSS) will be charged as a separate item on the costumers’ invoices. Tariff will be reviewed quarterly. To offset the additional cost incurred, Maersk Line will incorporate the higher average fuel costs into the existing standard bunker surcharge (SBF).
Panama Canal Updates Maersk on Expansion
Within the framework of the centennial celebration, the Panama Canal Administrator Jorge L. Quijano received a Maersk Line delegation led by Søren Skou, CEO of Maersk Liner Business, to provide an update on the Expansion Program and discuss the future trends in the maritime industry. Administrator Quijano updated Maersk executives on the progress of the Expansion Program. He said that the plan is underway to ensure that the new locks will be open for transits in the beginning of 2016.
