Maersk Line has decided to cease its slot charter agreement with the container line Hamburg S'd in the trade between the East Coast of South America and North America (also known as the NASA service) effective from 17 August 2008. As of 18 August 2008, Maersk Line will no longer accept cargo in this trade.

The decision has been made based on the unprofitable cargo volumes in the trade and as a consequence of Maersk Line's ongoing efforts to optimise its network. NEW MAERSK LINE BAF FORMULA: NORTH AMERICA - MEDITERRANEAN/MIDDLE EAST TRADE AND INTRA ASIA TRADE

As previously announced, Maersk Line will roll out a new global formula for calculation of floating BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor) during the course of 2008. The structure of the formula will be the same for all trades, whereas the variables in the formula will differ depending on the individual services.

Our aim is to provide a simple, fair and transparent BAF for our customers - allowing us to share the risks and opportunities from the fluctuating bunker prices.

We are pleased to advise that the new Maersk Line BAF will take effect in the:

Mediterranean to/from North American trade on 1 April 2008 where after it will be revised on a quarterly basis. As of this date the BAF for both dry and refrigerated containers will be:

  • USD 170 per 20 foot container
  • USD 340 per 40 foot container

North America - Middle East/Indian Subcontinent trade on 3 April 2008 where after it will be revised on a quarterly basis. As of this date the BAF for both dry and refrigerated containers will be:

  • USD 215 per 20 foot container
  • USD 430 per 40 foot container

Middle East/Indian Subcontinent - North America trade on 1 May 2008 where after it will be revised on a quarterly basis. As of this date the BAF for both dry and refrigerated containers will be:

  • USD 215 per 20 foot container
  • USD 430 per 40 foot container

Intra Asia trade on 1 April 2008 where after it will be revised on a quarterly basis. As of this date the BAF for both dry and refrigerated containers will be:

  • USD 115 per 20 foot container
  • USD 230 per 40 foot container