The shipping rates applied by ferry lines operating to/from Malta have increased both in 2021 and 2022
Shipping rates applied by ferry lines operating to and from Malta have increased both in 2021 and 2022, said the Association of Tractors and Trailers (ATTO).
She was reacting to the comments expressed by Labor Deputy Carmelo Abela in Parliament a few days ago regarding the need to reduce shipping costs for Maltese Exporters and Importers.
ATTO said in a statement that it agreed with the MP that ocean rates, especially from the Atlantic and the Pacific, have been drastically reduced compared to those in 2021. However, the rates applied by the ferry lines operating to/from Malta have increased. in 2021 and 2022. ATTO has vigorously addressed this issue with these ferry lines, but these efforts have been futile. The ATTO reiterated the point that the increase was too high for the Maltese exporter/importer to bear.
In addition to having to cope with the additional costs and disruption inherent in work schedules, due to the new Mobility Package Regulation imposed at EU level, ATTO members, who are the operators of the trailers that carry goods from/to Malta on European roads, they also face the increase in the price of diesel throughout Europe.
These are additional factors that the Honorable Member should also consider. It is worth noting that approx. 60% of our foreign business trade in Malta is done with European countries, the majority of which are transported by the trailers of Maltese companies that are offering job opportunities to Maltese and Gozitan families and that are assisting directly to the entire Maltese economy, said ATTO. .