Maersk Line has increased rates for its South Asia-Middle East to Europe trade.

The company said trading conditions for the carriers operating in these markets are still subject to unacceptable rate levels and the situation is unsustainable in the longer term.

"The rate increase is necessary to continue to operate our services with the high level of reliability our customers have come to expect from Maersk Line." The new rates are USD 100 per 20' and USD 200 per 40'. The rate increases apply to dry cargo only.

Maersk has also launched a new service between East Med and Central Europe via the Adriatic Sea called Adriatic Levant Express or "ALEX".

"We are enhancing our existing extensive network in the Mediterranean by deploying two vessels on the new service to offer an innovative solution to the East Mediterranean reefer market with departures from Alexandria (Egypt) and Ashdod (Israel) to Central Europe," said Maersk.

In addition to its present coverage via the North European ports, Maersk would reach the Central European markets even faster with a single, effective and reliable direct service providing comprehensive and consistent coverage.

ALEX will phase in from Ashdod on 18 November 2009. The rotation will be Alexandria (Egypt), Ashdod (Israel), Koper (Slovenia), Ravenna (Italy), Piraeus (Greece), Limassol (Cyprus), and Alexandria (Egypt). (EHL)