The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) is in “intense negotiations” with theShipping Association of Barbados on rateincreases taking effect on September 12.
Recently, local shipping agencies were told they would now be paying a two-tiered fee hike on containerised goods from the United States, which is expected to be passed onto consumers.
But President of the BCCI Andy Armstrong, although not wanting to divulge any information,told SATURDAY SUN that they were already negotiating the situation.
First increase
Armstrong said the first increase was scheduled for September 12, but noted the “peak season surcharge” would take effect from September 19.
Shipping Agencies will now have to pay a GRI (general rate increase) of US$50 on 20-ft containers, US$100 on a 40-ft container and US$113 n containers bigger than 40 feet.
The peak season surcharge (PSS) will run until December 12, and will see US$150 charged on a 20-ft container and US$300 on a 40-ft container.
