Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2003
Re: Evergreen Declares Force Majeure

Dear NASA Member:

This is to notify you that Force Majeure event commenced at the Port of New York /New Jersey on May 14, 2003 and is ongoing.

Further on May 22, 2003 actions by ILA labor have stopped the operation of the M/V Ever Decent V-0036-034E at Norfolk, VA causing this vessel to be diverted. All Bills of Lading for New York and Norfolk on board this vessel will also be subject to the Force Majeure conditions.

This Force Majeure event consists of a labor dispute that has effectively closed all Evergreen operations at Maher Terminals at Port Elizabeth, NJ and Norfolk, VA. for the specific vessels listed below and for all cargoes on board said vessels destined for and to be loaded in ports beyond. A condition that is entirely beyond Evergreen's control.

	Vessel	Voyage Number	Position
	M/V Ever Reward	0059-054W	at berth86
	M/V Ever Repute	0155-040W	at berth 84
	M/V Ever Refine	0062-041E	Diverted
	M/V Ever Result	0156-046W	at anchorage
	M/V Ever Divine	0060-025W	at anchorage
	M/V Ever Decent	0063-034E	Diverted from Norfolk

Evergreen is now unable to move or deliver cargo through these Terminals or to perform any contract obligations which are in any way dependent on its ability to do so. While this Force Majeure condition is temporary, we have no way of knowing at this time when it will end.

Upon achieving any determination from the courts or the NLRB, Evergreen has prepared contingency plans that seek the most immediate way that all customers can receive their cargo as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Best Regards,
Gregory Taylor
North American Shippers Association