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Panama has approved a new charging structure for containerships and has
given the go ahead for big increases in charge, to be phased in on over
three years, despite strong opposition from owners.
The International Chamber of Shipping appeared taken by surprise at the
timing of the announcement but a spokesperson re-affirmed the shipowners'
opposition to the size of the increase in charges.
Panama Canal Authority (ACP) Administrator/CEO Alberto Alemán Zubieta said:
"The bottom line is that we simply closed a loophole that prevented us from
charging for containers carried on-deck. Today, with some ships carrying
more containers on-deck than in the ship's belly, this new system is more
equitable, more transparent and will provide the Canal with a fair price.
Considering other shipping options, the canal is still the best deal in the
industry."
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