Matson announced Monday it is decreasing its fuel-related surcharge by 3.5 percentage points because of recent declines in bunker fuel prices.

The prices are effective Sunday, June 17.

The surcharge for its Hawaii service will go down from 45.5 percent to 42 percent.  For Matson's Guam/CNMI and Micronesia services, the surcharge will dip from 42 percent to 38.5 percent.

"We are pleased to be able to make this downward adjustment to our fuel surcharge, which for most customers represents a reduction in shipping costs ranging from $80 to $140 per container," said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president, ocean services.  "Escalating energy costs have impacted all businesses, as well as consumers, this year, with transportation companies especially hard hit.  Fortunately, bunker fuel prices have moderated recently, allowing us to lower our fuel surcharge.  Matson has made a practice of giving 30 days notice for upward rate adjustments, but passes on downward adjustments to our customers as soon as possible.  We will continue to monitor fuel costs and adjust the surcharge accordingly."

Matson’s last adjustment to its Hawaii service fuel surcharge was an increase of five percentage points, effective February 26, 2012.  That adjustment followed three consecutive decreases in 2011.

As a result of significant increases in freight volume for Matson’s Guam and Micronesia services following the departure of a competitor from the trade late last year, fuel costs per container did not necessitate an upward adjustment in 2012.  This is the fourth consecutive decrease for Matson’s Guam and Micronesia services.