Matson seeks rate increase

Matson Navigation Co. is seeking an increase in tariffs at Guam, Saipan, Tinian and Rota that would increase port-to-port shipping rates by about 3 percent.

Matson has filed its proposed rate increase petition with the federal Surface Transportation Board, the company said in a letter to customers last week.

The general increase in tariffs would be the first by the shipping company since it began serving the Pacific islands of Guam, Saipan, Tinian and Rota in February 1996, Matson said. The ocean carrier has raised costs to customers in other forms, including an increase in fuel surcharge. The general rate increase will help offset higher operating costs and support ongoing investments, according to Matson.