Matson Raising Fuel Surcharge 4.5%

Courtesy of Hawaii News Now.

By Sonia Isotov

Matson announced today that it is increasing the fuel surcharge for Hawaii 4.5% starting October 7.

As a result of rising bunker fuel prices and other energy related costs, Matson says it is raising its fuel surcharge by 4.5%, from 39% to 43.5% for its Hawaii service, and from 35.5% to 40% for its Guam/CNMI and Micronesia services, effective October 7, 2012.

The increase follows two consecutive decreases in June and July of 2012 which totaled 6.5%.

“While we were encouraged by the moderation of bunker fuel prices earlier this year, that trend has been reversed in recent months,” said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president, ocean services, in a written statement.

“Since announcing our last decrease in mid-July, bunker fuel prices have risen over 13%.  As with all increases, Matson gives our customers 30 days advance notice prior to implementation. We will continue to monitor fuel prices and adjust the surcharge accordingly.”