BAF to remain unchanged at least till June 15

A couple of weeks ago, the Trans-Atlantic Conference Agreement (TACA) announced that despite the continued level of high fuel prices, its bunker adjustment factor (BAF) would remain unchanged at least till June 15. The BAF tariff rates for traffic to and from and via Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports currently are $607 per TEU and $1,214 per FEU and 45-ft containers. For traffic to and from and via Pacific Coast ports, the rates are $911 per TEU and 1,822 per FEU and 45-ft con tainers. However, not every one in shipping circles is impressed. European Shippers Council research into bunker surcharges by liner conferences are creating “growing disquiet” because they are higher than fuel costs, says Shipping Gazette quoting a statement from the lobby group.