Ecuador, Chile and Japan expressed their rejection to a toll increase announced by the Panama Canal, arguing that it is exaggerated and was announced at a very short notice.
"The increase is excessive and it will likely cause additional problems for the shipping industry," said Arturo Sierra, of Chile´s National Association of Shipowners, which covers the shipping companies of that country, and also representative of
International Chamber of Shipping, in the audience of consultations that were implemented by the Canal to change its rates. "The biggest concern is the short notice that was given before the increase is implemented. Only a month, this is simply unacceptable," Sierra said. He stated that his country is the third user of the canal and about 30% of its foreign trade was mobilized by the Canal in 2011.
Jaime Albuja, representing the Ecuadorian government, asked the authorities to widen the time for this increase to come into force so as to give time to the Ecuadorian market to prepare productively to address the new rate. "All of the
South American countries have the same position: that it needs more time and to provide alternatives (to the increase)," he said.
The interim in charge of the Japanese Embassy´s business affairs, Shuji Goto, said his government "is seriously concerned about this increase in tolls that could affect the business of Japanese shipping companies." He reported that Japan believes that the change must be preceded by an extended period of prior consultation and not to "impose" the burden. Japan is the second largest user of the canal, preceded by the United States.
The head of the Panama Canal Authority, Alberto Aleman Zubieta said that users "will always ask for more time and no one likes to increase prices. That I understand."
"We will make the corresponding analysis because this is a transparent process," said the manager.
He said the adjustment of quotas will be implemented between 2012 and 2013 and they will include hikes between 5% to 7.5% in several segments.
"The main adjustment will be done to the segment of tankers, chemical tankers and general cargo," said Zubieta. The proposal includes for example, to alter the rate of tanker ships that pay USD 4.46 dollars for each of the first 10,000 tons, to pay USD 4.68 as of July 2012 and USD 4.92 starting July 2013.
Source: Diariolasamericas