DANISH shipping giant Maersk Line has announced a series of general rate increases (GRI) on a number of trade lanes from May as a means to restore profitability.

From May 1, the world's largest carrier said it will increase the rates of its southeast Asia-Australia service by US$500 per TEU and $1,000 per FEU.

Starting May 15, Maersk will impose GRIs on the following trade lanes. Rates for service from the Far East to India and Pakistan will increase by $150 per TEU and $300 per FEU and 45-foot high cube box.

Also effective May 15, rates for services from the US to Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan and Bangladesh), the Middle East and Red Sea region will increase $100 per all types of containers.

On the same date, rates for dry cargo shipments from Far East to central America and the Caribbean will increase by $560 per TEU and $800 per FEU and high cube container.

Effective May 16, rates for dry cargo shipment from Far East to east Africa will raise $200 per TEU.

Also, with effect from May 17, rates for cargo from the US to Sri Lanka will increase by $100 per all types of container.