Media Release
25 November 2011

Business as usual for Kiwi companies: Maersk Line

Maersk Line New Zealand says it’s business as usual for New Zealand importers and exporters, following the announcement that Malaysian shipping company MISC Berhad will quit the container shipping business next June.

MISC and Maersk are joint operators of the Northern Star and Southern Star services, which provide a weekly connection between New Zealand and key hub ports in Singapore and Malaysia.

Maersk New Zealand Trade & Marketing Manager Dave Gulik said the nine-vessel service had been well supported by the New Zealand market, and the company had no plans to change the schedule.

“The partnership will continue to operate until June next year. Following MISC’s withdrawal, Maersk will maintain both the Northern and Southern Star services in their present form,” Mr Gulik said.

“Maersk customers will continue to enjoy the same coverage they presently receive.”

Mr Gulik said MISC’s decision to exit the container shipping business illustrated the difficulties shipping lines were facing, with rates on many routes around the world unsustainably low.

“Container shipping is a highly capital-intensive business,” said Mr Gulik.

“Finding the balance that allows us to provide a service that meets our customers’ needs and is financially viable for us is an ongoing challenge.”

ENDS

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