HONOLULU -- Shipping giant Matson Navigation Co. announced Friday it is raising its fuel surcharge for Hawaii service by 4.5 percent.

The increase raises the fuel surcharge from 33.75 to 38.25 percent. The last hike in the fee was in April.

The new charge takes effect on July 13.

The fuel surcharge for Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Micronesia will increase by 6 percentage points, from 33.75 to 39.75 percent.

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Star-Bulletin Link: Read about how the increase is affecting Matson and island businesses.

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Matson officials said the company is looking for ways to increase its fuel efficiency and has begun sailing more slowly without affecting the arrival schedule.