Japanese shipowners call for scrapping of Panama Canal toll increases

The Japanese Shipowners’ Association (JSA) has called for Panama authorities to scrap planned toll increases for the Panama Canal after a three month delay in implementation was given, Seatrade Asia online reports.

Following complaints by shipowners organisations the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) delayed the introduction of new toll regime by three months.  JSA has now called for the scrapping of the new toll regime altogether.

“Although JSA appreciates this action [the delay], it is very marginal and does very little to obviate the cost penalties to the shipping industry which will apply if the ACP plans are implemented in their present form,” JSA said.

JSA pointed to the global loss making situation of the shipping industry and sharp toll increases between 2006 and 2011.

The association said it was “deeply disappointed with the outcome” and it did not “respond in any shape or form” to its request to withdraw proposed toll increases in 2012 and 2013.